The Embassy of Japan and the Saint Lucia Solid Waste Management Authority last week signed a grant contract and Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

The agreement signed at the Department of External Affairs, makes provision for grant funding of USD$80,041 for the supply of three used refuse collection vehicles for use in Castries and was made possible under the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects administered by the Government of Japan.

The support received from the Embassy of Japan will facilitate a collaboration between the Saint Lucia Solid Waste Management Authority and communities of Castries for the implementation of a sustainable and better-structured solid waste management programme within Castries.

The grant is also aimed at empowering residents with environmental management-related skills and techniques for better care of the environment.