|
The Future’s in Our Hands
Cleanliness and a tidy landscape have always been aspects that have enhanced the natural beauty of the Cayman Islands, even as these attributes have became powerful selling points for the tourism industry. These qualities have also been a source of pride for residents who relish our pristine environment. But now, with more mounds of rubbish on the horizon even as they were at the point of diminishing — and with many derelict vehicles still visible — it is obvious that our work is far from done. Working in favour of our ultimate goal of reclaiming our environment, however, is the certainty that any vision of incipient junkyards in our island paradise is unpalatable to us all – even for those who may be in denial. So, there is much basis on which to remain positive – as the outcome is really dependent on individual commitment and drive. So as the MC Restoration contract nears its end, let us stay in the game! And, in that respect, CIRO Operations Manager Mark Scotland has sound advice for the people of Grand Cayman: take advantage of the debris and derelict vehicle removal service now, because once ended, the responsibility will be personal once again. “The time has come when everyone must start thinking ahead,” says Mr. Scotland. The need to protect our fragile environment is also critical. The areas most vulnerable to debris and derelict vehicles are the mangroves, protected animal sanctuaries, bird habitats, and all waterways. Mangroves are our first line of defence against flooding and a key protector of our reefs and ecosystems; but derelict vehicles, their waste oil, fuel, coolants and other non-biodegradable waste can compromise these areas, causing serious and, possibly, irreparable contamination that might not be visible to the naked eye. Residents are accordingly advised to drain oil from derelict vehicles and take the oil to the attendant at the George Town landfill, weekdays between 7:00am and 4:00pm, or Saturdays, 7:00am to 11:00am. Oil should be placed in a clean, leak-proof plastic container and should not be mixed with any other substances. For more information on proper disposal of vehicle fluids, contact the Department of Environmental Health (DEH) at 949-6696. As we approach the summer months, consideration should also be given to debris and its potential to harbour mosquitoes, rodents and other pests. The Mosquito Research and Control Unit (MRCU) is already investigating the possibility of hurricane debris becoming home to mosquito larvae and is pre-treating certain locations holding derelict vehicles and/or debris. The unit will closely monitor the growth and spread of mosquitoes in these areas as part of its year-round approach to mosquito control in Cayman. Residents are reminded that since mosquitoes prefer dark, humid containers that can hold water, discarded tyres represent one of the main threats. Mosquito season generally starts at the end of May, but the hazard actually begins with the onset of seasonal rains. In Cayman there is little risk of mosquito-borne disease, but it is still possible that the Aedes aegypti or dengue fever mosquito (which can also carry the West Nile virus), could find debris or discarded tyres perfect places to call home. Post-Ivan, rodents have also caused anxiety; the Department of Environmental Health (DEH) has received numerous calls from residents concerned that debris mounds are encouraging rat infestations around Grand Cayman. While it is unrealistic to attribute all such problems to debris, rodents are adaptable and prone to locations where they can breed and eat undisturbed. To combat the problem, a rodent control team has set up a weekly schedule to lay bait and to otherwise address any reports of rats. Residents are advised to call DEH at 949-6696 if infestations of rats are noticed; if the problem is hurricane debris or other waste, contact Mr. Scotland at 916-2625. Mr. Scotland reminded residents of apartments, strata-related building projects or commercial property that the responsibility lies with the owners or the governing associations. Overall, it is clear that there are many pressing reasons to prioritise the removal of hurricane debris. As we continue to rebuild and restore, more waste will accumulate—but we must continue our drive to ensure proper disposal. The power lies within the community to retain the spirit that was so evident immediately after Ivan. Collectively, we can restore Cayman’s beauty; in the final analysis, our future truly lies in our own hands. Conditions that lead to rodents
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
