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5 Contents From the Desk of the Editor Pg. 2 President s Foreword Pg. 3 About the CWWA & Membership Pg. 4 The New CWWA Executive Pg. 5 New Members Welcome to the CWWA! Pg. 6 19th CWWA Conference & Exhibition Grenada Pg. 8 CWWA DOUBLE CELEBRATION: 18TH CWWA CONFERENCE/EXHIBITION & 20TH ANNIVERSARY AS A PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION! Pg A LOOK BACK - FIRST EXECUTIVE FOREWORD (1st CWWA Bulletin) Pg. 12 A LOOK BACK - CWWA s New Headquarters Pg. 13 A LOOK BACK - CWWA says Thank You Pg. 14 A LOOK BACK - CWWA Past Presidents Pg CWWA & GWP-C High Level Sessions: Ministerial Forums Pg Gold Awardees Pg. 20 Conference Themes over the Years Pg. 21 Past Conferences Pg. 22 CWWA Founding Father Ronald A. Williams: Environmental Engineer Pg CWWA Country Members and National Sections Pg. 28 Sector News Pg. 29 Seminar: Comprehensive Review Pg. 30 of the Groundwater Protection Policy For Barbados CWWA s Global Outreach Pg WORKSHOPS CWWA in the Community: Public Awareness Campaigns Pg CWWA in the Community: The CWWA Environmental Challenge and Treasure Hunt Pg. 38 Children/Youth on Climate Change Pg. 39

6 2 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue 07 From the Desk of the Editor This 7th Caribbean FLOW magazine includes: CWWA 20th Anniversary & 18th Annual Conference (4th 10th October, 2009) in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands, where a great time was had by all. It also includes: Highlights of the CWWA over the last 20 years Ads and photos Focus on CWWA Branches/Utilities Technical papers on popular subjects such as: The Greening Movement in the Caribbean, Climate Change, and Sustainable Development CWWA membership (new) Matters of interest to YOUTH and CHILDREN (Greening Books) With references to our policy of WAY FORWARD, attention is still being considered for the ASSOCIATION to collaborate more with other members of Civil Society (NGOs, CBOs and Faith- Based Organizations) both nationally and regionally. However, most attendees at the recent Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen (including the UN Secretary General) thought that a global agreement was not due until next year economic growth being given more attention than environmental issues. Where have we heard that before? (See our FLOW Magazine #6). Of course, the goal is still a Sustainable Caribbean Society; and the Editor of the Caribbean FLOW regrets that his health and age no longer allows him to stay on in a job that he has loved so much. However, he can still assist a younger editor. Editor s Note A decision was taken by the Executive to withhold the Commemorative Anniversary Edition of FLOW Magazine for the 25th Anniversary of the Association. However, it was also decided to include A Look Back section in each of the future magazines as there was so much valuable history of personal contributions and achievements to this Association that needed to be shared with its membership.

7 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue 07 3 President s Foreword Colleagues and friends, We are indeed pleased to share with you this special issue which commemorates the 20th year of the Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association. CWWA has accomplished much over the years, since the initial association meetings held by our forefathers, (and even prior, the meetings of water engineers from the region) who were pioneering water and sanitation engineers from the Caribbean with the support of collaborating partners. In this edition, we seek not only to share with you key issues related to our formative years, to share our goals, our aspirations, and our achievements over the years, but we also made a special attempt to provide a snapshot of recent accomplishments, and to provide you with a preview of things that are to come; the future of CWWA. In this special edition we provide articles and features that highlight: Our History and Our Legacy - We look back at various milestones throughout the Association s history. Such as the very first Executive Foreword and Foundation Prayer, the opening of the CWWA Trinidad and Tobago Secretariat Office, and information on our staff and past presidents. The Strength of Our Membership We highlight our New Membership as well as our long standing members, all of whom contribute to the growth of the water and sanitation sector. Past Annual Conference and Exhibitions We show how we have progressed, and highlight some aspects of all our conferences held throughout the years. Anniversary Conference in USVI - We especially feature the 20th Anniversary of the Association, celebrated at the 18th Annual CWWA Conference in the United States Virgin Islands. CWWA President, Eng. Cyprian Gibson CWWA High Level Ministerial Sessions - The High Level Sessions have become an integral parallel session to our conferences and here we draw attention from our very first to the 5th forum held in the USVI, in Our Regional and Global Profile and Partnerships In 2009, CWWA in conjunction with many of its partners was indeed proud to have played its role in various fora geared towards the improvement of water and waste governance in the region. These include activities in Istanbul (Turkey), Cuba, Spain, Costa Rica, Mexico, Puerto Rico and all across the Caribbean. Public Awareness We highlight how CWWA has always aimed to sensitise the public on water conservation and reuse through our public awareness campaigns. We have often collaborated with other organisations to run the Inter-American Water Day Schools Competition, Kite competitions and an Environment Rally. Our Future - As the current President of the CWWA, it is indeed my pleasure to declare that the CWWA has indeed reached maturity as both a regional and a global force for good in the water and waste sectors. The future of the organisation now lies on building upon the partnerships that we have made over the years and the establishment of the full range of products for all stakeholders in the water, wastewater and solid waste sectors. We trust that you enjoy this special edition, and we look forward to your continued support as we fulfil our mandate to improve the lives of the peoples of the Caribbean. Cyprian Gibson B. Eng, MBA, C.Eng. (PE), C.Env. President, CWWA

8 4 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue 07 About the CWWA & Membership Background The idea of a Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA) was conceptualised during the late 1980s out of the annual conference of Caribbean Water Engineers. In 1991, the Association was registered as a Non- Governmental Organisation (NGO) by an Act of Parliament (No. 8 of 1991) in the Republic of Trinidad & Tobago. The CWWA is committed to the advancement of the science, practice, and management of water supply and waste disposal for the benefit of Caribbean people through the development of human resources, public education, professionalism, as well as promotion of appropriate technologies in the water, wastewater, and solid waste sector. Mission To advance the science and practice of water supply, wastewater disposal and solid waste management, and promote the efficient management of utilities for the sustainable development of Caribbean people by: a) Facilitating research and development and the use of appropriate technologies; c) Promoting the professional development of our members by providing access to accredited education and certified training opportunities; d) Facilitating the sharing of members knowledge and experiences by providing an efficient support network; e) Building alliances and partnerships to strengthen the development of our members and member institutions; f) Advocating on critical issues affecting the water, wastewater and solid waste industries and our membership. Membership CWWA membership is open to individuals who work in the water, waste and environmental sectors. Companies and utilities that operate in those sectors are also included as members. Multiple regional and international countries are represented. b) Identifying emerging needs and providing valueadded opportunities for our members; Become a member TODAY!

9 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue 07 5 The New CWWA Executive At the 18th Annual General Meeting, a new Executive board was elected. Here are our heads who are enthusiastic to serve the CWWA for the period : L-R: May Adams Cornwall (USVI. 18th Conference Committee Chairman); Jason Johnson (Miami. Vice President); Eng. Cyprian Gibson (Bahamas. President); Dr. Halla Sahely (St. Kitts. Vice President); Wayne O. Williams (TT. President Elect); Stella Saunders (USVI. Public Relations Officer); Christopher Husbands (Grenada. 19th Conference Committee Chairman); Irwin Gill (TT. Treasurer). Missing from Photo: Ms. Shamika Cudjoe (TT. Secretary)

10 6 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue 07 New Members... WELCOME TO THE CWWA! Corporate Members Global Environmental Consulting Inc. Ocean Earth Technologies Vermeer Caribbean Inc. Bio-Microbics Inc Usa Blue Book Caribbean Basin Enterprises (Bvi) Ltd. KCI Technologies Caribbean Green Company USA USA USA USA USA British Virgin Islands USA Bahamas Individual Members Jacqueline Cameron Altaf Gafoor Jim Schwaller Warner Palermo Jane Rogers Carol Rogers Vaughan Forsyth Jamaica Guyana USA Puerto Rico Anguilla USA Grenada

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12 8 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue TH CWWA CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION GRENADA At the 2009 Conference in the US Virgin Islands, Christopher Husbands, 19th Conference Committee Chairperson accepted the Conference Banner from the USVI Conference Committee, thus symbolising Grenada s consent to host the 2010 Conference! L-R: Eng.Cyprian Gibson (Bahamas. CWWA President); Hugo V. Hodge, Jr. CPQ Executive Director (CEO) V.I. Water and Power Authority; Christopher Husbands (Grenada 19th Conference Committee Chairman); May Adams Cornwall (USVI. 18th Conference Committee Chairman)

13 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue 07 9 CWWA Double Celebration: 18th CWWA Conference/Exhibition & 20th Anniversary as a professional Association! Jubilation is the only way to describe the commemoration of CWWA 20th Anniversary and the commencement of the 18th Annual CWWA Conference and Exhibition, with the theme Developing Caribbean Water & Waste Resources. The official venue was the Marriott Frenchman s Reef & Morning Star Resort in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands, from October 4th 10th Full kudos goes to cohosts of the Conference, the USVI Water and Power Authority (WAPA) and the V.I. Waste Management Authority (VIWMA) in conjunction with the Governor s Office, the Department of Tourism and the University of the Virgin Islands, for making this another very successful event on the CWWA calendar! Prior to the official opening of the Conference and Exhibition, Sunday 4th and Monday 5th featured the prestigious Fifth High Level Session Ministerial Forum (HLS-5). Lt. Governor Gregory R. Francis in the Office of the Governor of USVI hosted the Forum on behalf of Governor John P. de Jongh Jr. from Agencies and Institutions in the sector and other distinguished professionals, who did various presentations on the theme Building a Water Secured Region: A Caribbean Response. HLS attendees and some special invitees were the guests at the evening s welcome reception held at the Governor s residence. Lt. Governor Gregory Francis on behalf of Gov. John P. de Jongh, Jr. and Lady de Jongh were the evening s hosts. Guests were treated to delectable cocktails and cuisine and spectacular live jazz music. On the second day of the Forum the session continued with a roundtable discussion, and closed with the endorsement and signing by the Ministers present, a summary proposal to ensure that water is placed as a major item on the agenda for CARICOM. The Sunday and Monday conference sessions featured training opportunities in Energy Efficiency for water, wastewater and solid waste operators, sponsored by the Inter-American Development Bank and Caribbean Development Bank. Also on the program was the Water Operators Partnership Program (WOP) workshop, held in collaboration with IDB, UN-HABITAT, CDB and IWA. Managers of Utilities were invited to this seminar to form alliances to facilitate twinning arrangements among water operators in Latin America and the Caribbean. Lt. Governor Gregory R. Francis welcomes all to the USVI at the Welcome Reception held at the Governor s residence This High Level Ministerial Forum is in collaboration with Global Water Partnership-Caribbean and the CWWA. The forum included Caribbean Ministers with responsibility for water, representatives Keynote addresses were made by the USVI Lt. Governor, Gregory R. Francis and CWWA President Eng. Cyprian Gibson and included Hugo Hodge, Jr., CPQ Executive Director (CEO) WAPA, May Adams Cornwall, Executive Director, VIWMA and Chair of the CWWA 2009 Conference Planning Committee. The audience was enlightened on the fact that this event is an opportunity for vendors to exhibit technologies and services to the single largest assembly of water and waste resources professionals and executives in the Caribbean, urging them to absorb as much as they can and to enjoy the Virgin Islands. CWWA s first and Past President Eng. Ronald A. Williams, briefed the audience on the history of the CWWA, highlighting

14 10 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue 07 CWWA Double Celebration: 18th CWWA Conference/Exhibition & 20th Anniversary as a professional Association! (continued) key facts from when CWWA began in 1991 and how it has progressed over the years and reaching the 20-year milestone. On the 4th day of the Conference, the Conference Committee hosted a Student Day in which various students were invited to partake in discussions on the Conference and matters in the sector. Eng. Williams addresses audience at the Opening Ceremony The Lt. Governor and the CWWA President then cut the ribbon to mark the official opening of the 18th Annual CWWA Conference and Exhibition. Technical sessions commenced Tuesday and continued through noon on the Thursday. The Conference saw over 250 delegates from the region including Canada, USA, UK and Europe. The Exhibition held some 50 Booths consisting of vendors of water, wastewater, energy saving and recycling products and services for residential, commercial, government and other organisations. Participants at an Exhibitor sbooth Student at Student Day Forum This lively session was enlightening to both teachers and students as they learned about many important facts in the sector. The students were then given a tour of the Exhibition Site. One of the main items at the CWWA Conference is its highly anticipated Annual General Meeting (AGM), traditionally held on the Wednesday of the conference. The President and the Treasurer presented to the membership the Executive and Treasurer s Reports for the period respectively. The highlight of this meeting was the election of new officers for the period Nominees for Executive positions gave a brief presentation of themselves and their strengths in the hope of serving on the Executive Committee. After votes were cast and ballots counted, the New Executive for the period was presented to the membership as follows: (Photo on Page 5) Wayne O. Williams - President Elect, Dr. Halla Sahely and Jason Johnson - Vice Presidents, Stella Saunders the new Public Relations Officer and Shamika Cudjoe the new Secretary. Christopher Husbands was named Ordinary Member for 19th Conference Planning Committee - Grenada. Following the day s more structured proceedings,

15 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue CWWA Double Celebration: 18th CWWA Conference/Exhibition & 20th Anniversary as a professional Association! (continued) participants were treated to a taste of the Virgin Islands festivities and culture at various cultural and social events held at night. Many enjoyed the music and sumptuous local cuisine in a more relaxed atmosphere. 18th Conference Committee (USVI), to the 19th Conference Planning Committee (NAWASA, Grenada). Mr. Christopher Husbands, General Manager of National Water and Sewerage Authority (NAWASA) and newly elected Ordinary Member of the Executive, was on hand to receive the banner (See photo on Page 8) before presenting a short powerpoint slide on Grenada and their plans for hosting the 2010 Conference. The Banquet also saw the 20th Anniversary being commemorated with the acknowledgment of Eng. Ronald A. Williams as a veteran to the CWWA and with the sticking of the Association birthday cake with his wife, Mrs. Paddy Williams. Cultural Perfomance at one of the Cultural Nights The Conference culminated with the Awards Banquet and Closing Ceremony held on the Thursday night. At this gala event, it is traditional to recognise distinguished Caribbean practitioners in the water, wastewater, solid waste and environmental sectors. Eng. Pedrito Augustus and Eng. Francois Henry H. Smith of the US Virgin Islands were chosen to receive the Gold Award for their distinguished service in the sector. Additionally, the Eng. Ronald Williams Award for technical excellence was presented to Ms. Sandra Timothy of Trinidad & Tobago and Ms. Lisa Kirkland of Jamaica for best technical presentation and Century Eslon Limited of Trinidad & Tobago were awarded for the Best Exhibition Booth. Top Presenter Award Winners Immediately after the presentation of awards, was the ceremonial passing of the banner from the host Eng. R.A. WIlliams sticking the cake with his wife, Paddy The 18th Conference closed on a high note, with participants having an opportunity to sight - see and participate in planned technical tours to the Virgin Islands Water Management Authority (VIWMA), Red Point Wastewater Treatment Facility and the Water and Power Authority (WAPA) and Randolph E. Harley Power and Desalination Plants both in St. Thomas including the VIWMA s Anguilla Landfill and WAPA s Richmond Reverse Osmosis Plant in St. Croix. The CWWA Executive and the USVI Conference Planning Committee would like to acknowledge the generous contribution of time by members and support throughout the period. It is impossible to ascribe a value to the Ministers, exhibitors, technical authors, presenters, moderators, panellists, sponsors other participants and the Conference Committee without whom there would not have been a Conference in the US Virgin Islands. We extend our best wishes to Grenada as they host the 19th Annual CWWA Conference. We look forward to seeing you all in October 2010!

16 12 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue 07 A Look Back First Executive Foreword (1st CWWA Bulletin) CWWA President 1993 Ronald A. Williams The Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA) is an offshoot from the Annual Caribbean Water Engineers Conference first held in the sixties on a biennial basis with rotational hosting. In the eighties, a number of concerns were repeatedly expressed. One was that the Conference had limited attendance. No more than one senior representative from each Water Agency attending. Another one was lack of activity between meetings, and the non-existence of continuous infrastructural support. It also became increasingly clear that Caribbean countries were ready for increased technical cooperation and network development. The first formal resolution to establish an Institute of Caribbean Water Professional was passed in Antigua in 1985 (14th Annual Caribbean Water Engineers Conference). This was repeated the next year at the 15th Conference in Tortola, B.V.I., and initiated at the 16th Conference in Grenada in On 30th November 1988, the Foundation Meeting of CWWA was held in Montserrat, and a Constitution was adopted, following which an Executive Council was elected. During the years , the Association was registered in the Parliament of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago (Act No. 8 of 1991). The Executive Council has concentrated on increasing membership, developing the first CWWA branch in Trinidad & Tobago, and laying the foundation for a broadly based self-reliant Association of water and wastewater personnel in the Caribbean. This is now a call to membership to participate keenly in association affairs, such as in the First Annual Conference in October 1992, held in Trinidad which replaced the former Annual Caribbean Water Engineers Conference. We think the CWWA is an association whose time has come. FOUNDATION MEETING PRAYER Our Father, Guardian of all people and all professions. Bless this gathering tonight as we meet to formalise the foundation of a Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association. Guide us Oh Lord in this effort; and through the years, help our Association to develop into a permanent regional body achieving its aims and objectives with enthusiasm and integrity. We pray that our members will always be good citizens, managing our collective knowledge and using our technical skills in the interest of a better quality of life for all our peoples in the Caribbean. And for all of this, for ourselves and for absent company, we thank you, O Lord God. Amen Nov. 1988

17 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue A Look Back CWWA S NEW HEADQUARTERS February 1998 The Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association was recently given a new Headquarters on the First Floor of The Water and Sewerage Authority s (WASA s) Head Office Building at St. Joseph, Trinidad. Mr. Leo Lawson, CWWA President, and a former Director of Engineering at the Jamaica National Water Authority, was on hand to receive the keys from WASA s Head of Corporate Communications, Gideon Hanoomansingh. In making the presentation, Mr. Hanoomansingh noted that it was only fitting that an Organisation dedicated to advancing the science, practice and management of water supply and waste disposal be housed within WASA. He added that this gesture would not only confirm the Authority s solidarity with other member Organisations from neighbouring Caribbean territories and Agencies from the UK, USA and Canada, but also assist the Association in its efforts to increase technical cooperation and networking. Mr. Lawson dubbed the occasion a very important milestone, and gave a brief insight into the background leading up to the registering of the CWWA by an Act of Parliament in August He added that the immediate goal of the CWWA was to raise the level of service provided to its 250 plus members in 25 countries. One such service was the establishment of a permanently staffed Secretariat. He expressed his gratitude to WASA for providing the facilities, which he felt would make a positive difference to the effectiveness of the Organisation. Equipped with Conference and Library facilities, the CWWA s office operates between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. from Monday to Friday. Currently, the CWWA office is still located at the WASA compound, but is no longer on the 1st floor but in the PSA Building. Leo Lawson, CWWA President (left) gets assistance from Corporate Communications Manager, Gideon Hanoomansingh in commissioning the new CWWA Headquarters

18 14 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue 07 A Look Back The CWWA Says Thank You! Since its opening in Trinidad at WASA, St. Joseph in 1998, the Association s office has been ardently run by its Administrative Secretary, Marian Stephen. Marian has diligently assisted the vast membership and Executive in many duties and has often gone beyond the call of duty to provide superior service to the Association s individuals. Therefore, we the CWWA salute Marian Stephen for the excellent work she has provided and continues to provide to us. Thank you Marian! We also say thank you to the following previous and current employees of the Association: Arryl Lewis Assistant Communications Marketing Officer (2008 present) Candice Hickson Administrative Assistant (2008) Michelle McIntyre Communications Marketing Officer ( ) Lisa Marie Thomas Communications Marketing Officer ( ) Marian Stephen -Administrative Secretary- ( present)

19 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue A Look Back CWWA Past Presidents Over the past 20 years the CWWA has been well represented! Arduous professionals in the sector have proudly served the Association as Presidents. The CWWA acknowledges these individuals who have willingly served the Association and contributed to making it what it is today. We salute! RONALD A. WILLIAMS (Trinidad & Tobago) EMMANUEL ROMAIN (deceased) (Trinidad & Tobago) ANDREW P. HUTCHINSON (Trinidad & Tobago) LEO LAWSON (Jamaica) DANIEL E. CUMMINGS (St. Vincent) ERROL GRIMES (Trinidad & Tobago)

20 16 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue 07 A Look Back CWWA Past Presidents (continued) ANA TREASURE (Jamaica) HUGH SEALEY (Barbados) SHERRY DUMAS-HAREWOOD (Trinidad & Tobago) Building sustainable infrastructure today... for a Better Tomorrow. AGENTS FOR: Airport construction/ redevelopment Subdivision development R.O. & Sewage treatment plants Vacuum sewer systems Underground utility infrastructures Canal excavation Potable & waste water tanks Multi-purpose concrete foundations General excavation The Product of Choice for All Your Containment Solutions. Waugh Construction (Bahamas) Limited Tel: (242) waughconstruction@coralwave.com Fax: (242)

21 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue THE CWWA & GWP-C HIGH LEVEL SESSIONS: MINISTERIAL FORUMS The High Level Sessions (HLS), a joint initiative of the Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA) and its Partner, the Global Water Partnership- Caribbean (GWP-C), began in 2005 as a parallel session of the CWWA Annual Conference and Exhibition. It is a High Level Session of Ministers with responsibilities for water management in the Caribbean. From inception, the HLS has undoubtedly been a key tool in providing an opportunity to formulate and implement a regional approach to water sector management. Discussions throughout the past five forums ( ) have examined issues such as: challenges and opportunities for Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) in the Caribbean and globally; funding of water and facilities programmes and projects in the Caribbean; policy implications for climate change and water utilities; adapting IWRM principles; building a water secured region; water financing and several other key technical issues. Here we highlight the various High Level Sessions held over the past five CWWA Conferences. In 2005, the first HLS, was welcomed at the 14th Annual CWWA Conference held in Barbados. The Honourable Anthony Wood, Minister of Energy and Public Utilities in the Government of Barbados hosted the forum and it was deemed a success and important to providing an opportunity to formulate and implement a regional approach to sector management. The second HLS was hosted by the Ministry of Public Utilities and the Environment in cooperation with CWWA and GWP-C at the Hilton Tobago Golf and Spa Resort for the 15th CWWA Conference in The Forum included Technical Presentations on the first day and roundtable discussions on the second day. This HLS was hosted by the Honourable Pennelope Beckles, Minister of Public Utilities and the Environment, Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. In 2007, at the 16th CWWA Conference and Exhibition, the third Ministerial Forum was hosted by the Ministry of Public Works, Utilities, Transport and Posts in cooperation with CWWA and GWP-C at the St. Kitts Marriott, presentations focused on climate change and disaster management. Some technical and financial support for the forum was provided by Economic Commission of Latin America and the Caribbean (UNECLAC). The Honourable Dr. Earl Asim Martin, Minister of Public Works, Utilities, Transport and Posts in the Government of St. Kitts hosted the forum. The Honourable Dr. Earl Asim Martin, Minister of Public Works, Utilities, Transport and Posts with Mr. Peets 2007, 3rd HLS The fourth HLS paralleled the 17th CWWA Conference in 2008 at Montego Bay, Jamaica with Dr. Horace Chang, Minister of Water and Housing Jamaica hosting the Forum. At this meeting, Ministers and highly acclaimed professionals within the sector throughout the region discussed the theme Financing the Water and Waste Sector.

22 18 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue 07 THE CWWA & GWP-C HIGH LEVEL SESSIONS: MINISTERIAL FORUMS (continued) The US Virgin Islands Governor John P. de Jongh, Jr. hosted the most recent fifth HLS at the 18th Annual Conference which was held at the USVI, This Forum themed, Challenges and Opportunities for IWRM in the Caribbean sought to consolidate efforts made in the last 4 years of convening the HLS with the goal to develop and adopt strategies and plans that would ensure that the Caribbean is a water secured region. The principal output of this Meeting was Recommendations signed by the three Ministers present. These Recommendations which were forwarded to CARICOM included that: High Level Session be endorsed as a CARICOM Forum; a Regoinal Action Plan for Water be urgently developed within the context of a Common Water Framework; and that water be represented at the quasi-cabinet level at CARICOM as a substantive porfolio. Participants at the 5th HLS Forum, USVI These High Level Sessions continue to play an integral parallel role to the CWWA Conferences since many issues in the sector are brought to light at the Ministerial Level. The GWP-C and the CWWA extend much gratitude to all the Ministers that have supported this initiative throughout the past five years. With governmental involvement such as this, it is expected that the HLS would soon be a sought-after Forum among all Ministers in the sector of the region where critical water issues are examined. (L - R) Head Table: Professor Jacob Opadeyi (GWPC Chair); May Adams Cornwall, PE (Executive Director, V.I. Waste Management Authority); Hon. Irfaan Ali (Minister of Housing and Water, Guyana); Dr. Edward Greene (Assistant Secretary General, CARICOM); Dr. Letitia Obeng GWP Chair; Hugo V. Hodge, Jr., CPQ Executive Director (CEO), VI Water and Power Authority Eng. Cyprian Gibson, CWWA President

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24 20 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue 07 Gold Awardees The CWWA Gold Award is presented each year to individuals who have: (a) Provided DISTINGUISHED SERVICE in any of the fields of Water Supply/Wastewater Disposal and/or Solid Waste Management in the Caribbean at the highest level as recognised by the Association and/or acknowledged by a National or Regional body. (b) PROLONGED SERVICE for twenty-five (25) years or more, in Water Supply/Wastewater Disposal and/or Solid Waste Management in the Caribbean considered long and meritorial service in a position(s) of acceptable repute. (c) SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT in the Technical or Managerial areas of programme or Project Management in the fields of Water Supply, Wastewater Disposal, or Solid Waste Management in the Caribbean. Each year, the CWWA identifies distinguished Caribbean practitioners in the Water, Wastewater, Solid Waste and Environmental Sectors. YEAR & COUNTRY NAMES OF RECIPIENTS 1992 (Trinidad & Tobago) Leo Lawson (Jamaica), Raymond Noel (Grenada), Herbert Sealy (Barbados), Emile Warner (Trinidad & Tobago), O.K. Yhap (Guyana) 1993 (Barbados) Arthur Archer (Barbados), Mervyn Sankerali (Trinidad & Tobago), Erwin Tsai-Meu Cheong (Suriname), Ronald Williams (Trinidad & Tobago) 1994 (Jamaica) Margaret Dyer-Howe (Montserrat), Edward Fraser (Jamaica) 1995 (St. Lucia) John Calixter (St. Lucia), Daniel Cummings (St. Vincent & the Grenadines), Hildreth Sanchez (St. Lucia) 1996 (Bahamas) Ronald K. Bates (Barbados), E. George Moss (Bahamas) 1997 (St. Vincent & Harry Orville Phelps (Trinidad & Tobago), Hamilton St. George the Grenadines) (Trinidad & Tobago) 1998 (Antigua & Barbuda) Emmanuel Romain (Trinidad & Tobago), Brian Kennedy (St. Kitts/Nevis) 1999 (Jamaica) Ralph Fisher (Jamaica), Thorant Hardware (Jamaica) 2000 (Trinidad & Tobago) Raymond Reid (Haiti), Andrew Hutchinson (Barbados) 2001 (The Cayman Islands) Brainard Watler (The Cayman Islands) 2002 (St. Lucia) Keith M. Johnson (Barbados) 2003 (Bahamas) Robert Cant (Bahamas) 2004 (Martinique) Madeline de Grandmaison (Martinique), Yan Monplaisir (Guadeloupe) 2005 (Barbados) Christopher Griffith (Barbados), Dorian Dick Whittington (Jamaica) 2006 (Tobago) Gyan Shrivastava (India), Carl-Axel P. Soderberg (Puerto Rico) 2007 (St Kitts) Athill Rawlins (St. Kitts) 2008 (Jamaica) Basil Fernandez (Jamaica) 2009 (USVI) Pedrito Agustus Francois (USVI); Dr. Henry Smith (USVI)

25 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue Conference Themes over the Years Number Year Country Theme 1st 1992 Trinidad & Tobago The Caribbean Water Sector by the Year nd 1993 Barbados Standards in the Water & Wastewater Industry 3rd 1994 Jamaica Water & Wastewater Needs for the Caribbean 21st Century 4th 1995 St. Lucia Sustainable Development in the Water & Wastewater Industry 5th 1996 Bahamas Focusing on the Challenges for the Caribbean Water & Wastewater Industry 6th 1997 St. Vincent & Water Business in the Caribbean Today & Beyond the Grenadines 7th 1998 Antigua & Barbuda Springs of Knowledge Effecting Rivers of Change 8th 1999 Jamaica Water Supply & Sanitation in the Americas: Cooperation for Progress 9th 2000 Trinidad Sustainability in Water and Waste Management in the Caribbean 10th 2001 Cayman Islands Innovative Technologies in the Water & Waste Industries for the 21st Century 11th 2002 St. Lucia Partnering for the Environment 12th 2003 Bahamas Global Challenges Caribbean Solutions 13th 2004 Martinique Managing Resources in the Caribbean: for a common sustainable approach 14th 2005 Barbados Securing our Future: One Economy, One Environment, One Caribbean 15th 2006 Tobago Water and Waste Infrastructure Renewal in the Caribbean: Big Investment Big Dividends Big Future 16th 2007 St. Kitts Integrating Water and Sanitation in Sustainable Development 17th 2008 Jamaica Integrated Water Resources Management Developing Water Systems and Managing Waste 18th 2009 St. Thomas, USVI Developing Caribbean Water and Waste Resources

26 22 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue 07 Past Conferences Water is the connection Kemira is a global leader in process know-how, supplying reliability and an extensive range of products and solutions. Be it water or wastewater treatment our broad product offering covers multiple applications from coagulation and flocculation, to sludge treatment, phosphorus/struvite removal, disinfection, and foam, corrosion, and odor control, water is the connection. We manufacture the following products in plants throughout North America: Polyaluminum Chloride (PAX) Aluminum Sulfate (dry or liquid) Ferric/Ferrous Chloride Ferric/Ferrous Sulfate (dry or liquid) Organic Polymers (EPAMS, DPAMS, Polyamines, PolyDADMAC) Kemira 316 Bartow Municipal Airport Bartow, Florida USA Tel Fax richard.waterous@kemira.com

27 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue SAVE THE DATE!!! 2010 CWWA Conference & Exhibition: Water, Waste and Climate Change: a New Decade of Challenges and Opportunities

28 24 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue 07 CWWA Founding Father Ronald A.Williams: Environmental Engineer The story of Ronald Williams rise to excellence in Environmental Engineering is a tale of perseverance, pragmatism and progress. He founded the Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA) and was an architect of the Caribbean Environmental Health Institute (CEHI). He also worked with the World Health Organisation (WHO) in Africa, the Caribbean and Latin America. Ronald André Williams was born on 15th July, 1929 in Port of Spain, Trinidad. He was the third son of C.L. Williams and Lily Williams née Deane. He attended the Rosary Boy s R.C. School from 1934 to 1940 where he was an ambitious student, who one day walked down Frederick Street, along the St. Mary s College walls, touched them and said, This is my future. In 1940, Williams realised his dream of attending this top boys college. At St Mary s, he participated fully in the school life, joining the school s football and cricket teams and rising to the rank of vicecaptain in both teams. As a hot-blooded youth, he had divided attentions in high school; he got top marks in mathematics with ease, but seemed to forget the importance of the other subjects! Williams left school in 1946 and joined the Civil Service, working as a government clerk. He recalls breaking into tears in 1950 on the day of his 21st birthday, thinking to himself that this was not what he wanted in life. He knew that he could have achieved and contributed more to the society than he would contribute as a government clerk. One afternoon, while he was looking at a hockey match at the Savannah, Williams decided that he wanted to study in Toronto. After consulting with an older brother on the discipline he should select and borrowing some funds from his younger brother Jack, he headed off to St. Michael s College, a Catholic college in Canada, to pursue his future Ronald. A. Williams in environmental engineering in He was 24 years old. At the University of Toronto, Williams read for his first degree in environmental engineering. There, he maintained his participation in sports and also played on the University of Toronto football team for six years, holding the captaincy for four. In his final year as an undergraduate student in 1958, he presented a thesis entitled Disposal of Septic Tank Effluent in Sub-Surface Absorption Fields, a topic carefully chosen after he learned about the content of the following year s Master s degree programme. Also, his brother at home had communicated to him information on the pending retirement of the Sanitation Engineer, and the forward-thinking Williams thought he would be wise to properly prime himself to take his place! He graduated with First Class Honours and went on immediately to do his Master s degree on the topic Sanitary Engineering in the Public Health Programme. After graduating in 1959, he returned to Trinidad and took up the post of Sanitation Engineer.

29 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue CWWA Founding Father Ronald A.Williams: Environmental Engineer (continued) Williams made several major contributions to his country as a Sanitation Engineer. He supervised the Island-Wide Sewerage Scheme, managed the Privy Construction Scheme in San Fernando and was a member of the Water and Sewerage Authority establishment team. In 1962, Williams came across an advertisement from the World Health Organisation (WHO) for an Environmental Health Engineer with three years experience. Having just gained that amount of experience, Williams decided to apply. He was hired. Williams enjoyed a seven year stint with this international organisation, moving with his family his wife Paddy, and his three sons Wayne, Curt and Clint through Bhagdad, Iraq, to Alexandria, Egypt and finally to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Apart from performing advisory roles in each of these countries and taking part in country projects, he gained experience in tutoring and lecturing at the college and university levels. Upon his return to Trinidad in 1970, Williams was immediately called upon to serve the Government. He was the Project Manager for the consultants on the Caroni-Arena Water Supply Project in Trinidad and the Navet Pumped Storage Project. He was also the Chairman of the Pollution Control Council set up by the Ministry of Health and a Member of the National Conservation Council set up by the Ministry of Planning and Development. In 1978, Williams was invited by PAHO/WHO to prepare a paper on Preliminary Proposals for a Caribbean Centre for Environmental Health for a PAHO/ CARICOM Environmental Strategy Conference/ Workshop. The proposals were successful and when the Caribbean Environmental Health Institute (CEHI) was established in St. Lucia, he assisted in the early years of its development when he returned to the WHO in He left the Centre in 1989 but continued his service to the WHO. During this second period of service to the WHO, Williams was initially based in Jamaica, but travelled extensively throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. He was promoted to Caribbean Engineer in 1981 and served the region through the Caribbean Co-ordinator s office in Barbados. He had a major role in founding the Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association, serving as President of the Association for a time. During his term, the President of the Inter-American Association of Sanitary and Environmental Engineers, the President of PAHO and Williams himself initiated the celebration of Inter-American Water Day in 1992, which has now been extended to a week or month in some countries. Williams is currently Chairman of the Awards Committee of the Association. Ronald Williams is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Water and Environmental Management of the United Kingdom and a Member of the Association of Professional Engineers of Trinidad and Tobago. He is a Joint Founder of ReCaribe, the Wider Caribbean Solid Waste and Recycling Alliance. He has contributed over 40 years of service in his field of Environmental Engineering. He describes his contribution in a personal motto based on his father s words: To live is to serve. He reflects this philosophy in his continuing willingness to share his knowledge and expertise and to serve Government, Non-Governmental Organisations and anyone who calls upon him for assistance. Williams is always eager to participate in workshops, seminars, and conferences. He values exchanges and discussions as means of sharing information. The philosophy of living and serving transcends his chosen field of engineering. Williams is an active member of the Lions Service Club of Port of Spain Central. He was the founder and First President of the Society for the Conservation, Appreciation and Promotion of the Environment (SCAPE), and

30 26 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue 07 CWWA Founding Father Ronald A.Williams: Environmental Engineer (continued) Ronald A.Williams receives a Conference Plaque from CWWA President Eng. Cyprian Gibson at the 18th Conference, 2009,USVI. was once the Executive Director of the Caribbean Forest Conservation Association. He was also an avid character mas player in Carnival bands brought out by the late Edmund Hart, Harold Saldenha, and Mavericks and served as a Carnival Bands judge on two occasions. Though he considers himself as having started late, Williams advocates that young persons should have some exposure to the world of work before they move on to university. This, he believes, contributes to a more disciplined approach to studies and a better understanding of the realities and demands of life. He also feels that students who have no exposure to subjects outside of their pet areas need to broaden their perspective. In this vein, he has made one-man approaches to various educational institutions including the Ministry of Education and his alma mater to advocate the broadening of curricula, to expose all students to geography, history and other topics that would affect their lives. Williams has

31 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue CWWA Founding Father Ronald A.Williams: Environmental Engineer (continued) also recommended that past pupils organisations should provide mentoring lectures and sessions to current students, giving them a snapshot of life after school and life in the work world. To the younger generation, Williams proposes one watchword: Focus. There are many distractions for young people in today s world, but investments today pay off in the future. He credits the support of his family and his strong religious upbringing with shaping him into the person he is today. Aquastore tanks never need to be repainted. Which is a low maintenance claim that actually holds water. All Aquastore tanks are factory engineered with glass-fusedto-steel technology a durable surface that will not fade or crack and never needs repainting. With 25 years of proven performance in the Caribbean, greater lifetime value, and guaranteed installation by our Certified Building Crew, Aquastore 1.6 MG Water Storage Tank raised on jacks. Ginn Sur Mer, Freeport, Bahamas Florida Aquastore tanks are built to go the distance and beyond N.W. Boca Raton Blvd. Suite C-102 Boca Raton, FL 33431

32 28 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue 07 CWWA COUNTRY MEMBERS AND NATIONAL SECTIONS MEMBER COUNTRIES ANGUILLA ANT IGUA / BARBUDA ARUBA BARBADOS BAHAMAS BELIZE BERMUDA BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS CAYMAN ISLANDS CANADA COLOMBIA CURACAO DOMINICA GRENADA GUADELOUPE GUYANA JAMAICA MONTSERRAT MARTINIQUE NETHERLAND ANTILLES ST KITTS / NEVIS ST LUCIA ST MARTEEN ST VINCENT & THE GRENADINES SURINAME TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS UNITED KINGDOM UNITED STATES OF AMERICA UNITED STATES VIRGIN ISLANDS NATIONAL SECTIONS BARBADOS BAHAMAS JAMAICA LEEWARD ISLANDS FRENCH WEST INDIES / FRENCH GUIANA SECTION TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO

33 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue Sector News Barbados Government reforming BWA Barbados At a cocktail reception early January, Barbadian Prime Minister, David Thompson, assured all that the Barbadian Government is pushing ahead with the reformation of the Barbados Water Authority. He noted that the establishment of a reform unit would be in addition to the current management structure at the Authority. This subsidiary division would speedily aid in achieving the BWA s objectives including dealing with customer complaints. He, however, emphasised that the reformation process is a lengthy one and that the public should be patient. Furthermore, he guaranteed that the Minister of The Environment, Water Resources & Drainage would give weekly updates on the progression including contractual negotiations. Possible water relief for Haitian earthquake victims Haiti Since the terrible earthquake that rocked Haiti on 12th January, 2010, millions of quake victims are facing potentially deadly dehydration in Port-au-Prince. The need for water is critical and most sufferers have not been receiving it. However, the aircraft carrier U.S.S. Carl Vinson may be the answer to this dire problem. The nuclear powered vessel has massive desalination capacity which makes approximately 400,000 gallons of its own fresh water from the ocean saltwater. Moreover, an individual who oversees the desalination process, Cmdr. Williams McKinley, stated that the vessel can donate a daily supply of 200,000 gallons especially during humanitarian emergencies. The distribution of the water aid is only possible via 100,000 special 2-5 gallon water bladders. This allocation can ease a lot of pain that the Haitians have been experiencing since the natural disaster. WASA Gets Serious Trinidad and Tobago The Water and Sewerage Authority, Trinidad and Tobago (WASA) have imposed restrictions of the domestic uses of water throughout the country. The action from the Authority comes as a need to ensure that there is some sort of equity in the water distribution throughout the country. In addition, in the areas where there is inefficient water distribution, WASA makes truck-borne water supply available. Within some months, there will be actualisations of building a number of treatment plants in crucial areas to provide for residents, as well as repair leaking pipes. NAWASA s New Water Rates Grenada At a media conference, early January, Christopher Husbands, The National Water and Sewerage Authority s (NAWASA) Manager, indicated an increase in water rates on the isle of Grenada. Without being specific, he noted that the increase should be more than ten percent and that he would not be able to make a final statement Jamaica considers landfill energy projects similar to the US. Jamaica In late 2009, Jamaica s Energy Minister, Hon. James Robertson revealed that a Florida company was hired to build two landfill-to-lng plants in the country s land-fill area. He indicated that this would save the Jamaican Government $60 million per year in fuel imports. The decaying detritus from the dumps, release methane and other gases as they decay and so the process involves this methane gas being absorbed into tubes until he received an official announcement about the rates. This raise comes as the first since the Authority s last increase in 1992 and is necessary since it is quite expensive to produce and distribute the island s water. Husbands also explained that the Authority would continue to be more vigilant on outstanding arrears from large institutions such as government agencies. and being sent to plants to be purified and transformed into liquefied natural gas. The climate change benefits of a plant of this sort are enormous since methane from the trash heaps is captured before entering the environment and the use of the fuel produces less carbon dioxide than conventional gasoline. For example, in Houston one of the largest plants produces 13,000 gallons (49,400 litres) a day of LNG and takes 30,000 tons a year of CO 2 from the environment.

34 30 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue 07 Seminar: Comprehensive Review of the Groundwater Protection Policy for Barbados Guest Speaker: Mr. D. Smikle The Barbados Chapter of the CWWA, in conjunction with The Barbados Water Authority (BWA) held a seminar for its members and other interested parties on 10th December, 2009 at The University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus. Mr. Smikle making his presentation on Groundwater Protection The seminar s topic was the Comprehensive Review and Overhaul of the Groundwater Protection Policy for Barbados. The Guest Speaker was Mr. Dwight Smikle, of R. J. Burnside Int l. Mr. Smikle has been involved in a number of groundwater management studies in Canada and the Caribbean and has recently conducted a Groundwater Protection study for the BWA. Barbados, with a population of approximately 270,000 with an estimated 500,000 annual long stay visitors, is entirely dependent on groundwater for its water supply. Karst limestone covers the majority of the island. The importance of groundwater to the island has been recognised for many years and the first efforts at protection was in 1963 based on a recommendation from a United Nations scientist, H. Tullstrom who was working with UNTAP at that time. A zoning policy was adopted in 1963 which divided the island into five zones. Barbados is regarded as a pioneer in the implementation of protection policies. In recent years it has been recognised that the existing zoning programme needed evaluating and updating due to a number of factors such as: increased development, increased water demand, potential pollution and the availability of new technologies to protect groundwater resources. The Barbados Water Authority initiated a new study which has recently been completed by RJ Burnside. The objective of this seminar was to communicate the methodology and key findings and recommendations of the latest zoning study to the wider water and wastewater sector in Barbados. The meeting began with an Opening Address and introductory presentation on the history of the Barbados zoning studies and policies by Mr. Stephen Lindo, Project Manager of the BWA. The meeting then proceeded with a comprehensive outline of the RJ Burnside study and recommendations by Mr. Dwight Smikle. The presentation included details of the hydrogeological investigations, development of revised groundwater protection zones using groundwater modeling. Mr. Lindo concluded by confirming Barbados plans for developing a sustainable groundwater protection system and the drafting of a Groundwater Protection Act. The seminar was well attended and attracted a number of attendees from the wider engineering/scientific community. There was lively debate throughout the presentations and after the meeting during lunch. The response received reflected the importance of this topic and the genuine concern and positive approach which the engineering and science practitioners in Barbados have towards the protection of our environment and the safeguarding of water resources on the island for future generations. The CWWA-Barbados Chapter, Executive Committee.

35 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue CWWA S GLOBAL OUTREACH Through the Office of the President, and in collaboration with many of our national, regional, and global partners, the CWWA has been actively involved in a number of multi-national initiatives related to the water, wastewater and solid waste sectors. Since CWWA s 18th Annual Conference and Exhibition held in October 2009 in the British Virgin Islands, the CWWA has been actively involved in a number of water, wastewater and solid waste fora throughout Latin America, Central America, and Europe. CWWA represented by its President, Eng. Gibson has participated in five prestigious conferences in Mexico, Costa Rica, Spain and Cuba respectively. At the 1st International Water Association Development Congress in Mexico, held on the 15th 19th November 2009, participants discussed emerging solutions, developments and approaches to sustainable water and sanitation management and exchanged knowledge on all aspects of service delivery. Over 1,000 professionals in the water and sanitations sectors looked at scale solutions to the delivery and implementation of water and sanitation services in low and middle income countries and the setting up of the practice and research agenda for the water sector in those countries. During the congress, CWWA and The Caribbean Basin Water Management Programme Inc. (CBWMP) also participated in the Water Operators Partnership Latin America and the Caribbean meeting along with representatives of UN Habitat and the Inter- American Development Bank. Later in November, the CWWA with the assistance of the Caribbean Environmental Health Institute (CEHI) and the Global Environmental Facility Integrated Watershed and Coastal Area Management (GEF-IWCAM) Project participated in the America s Follow-up Meeting of the 5th World Water Forum held in Costa Rica on the 30th November to the 1st of December The aim of this meeting was to achieve concrete results in the region over the period leading to the 6th World Water Forum. At these interactive sessions, speakers highlighted top priorities identified in the region over the next three years. During the debates, participants shared regional experiences and discussed the proposal for establishing a regional instrument for concrete action. They also outlined all arrangements associated with such an initiative, such as the mission, objectives, membership, governance, financing and work program. The America s Follow - Up Meeting of the 5th World Water Forum After participating in Latin America, the CWWA President was immediately off to Spain on the 3rd and 4th December, 2009, for the 1st International Conference of the Global Water Operators Partnership Alliance - Raising Awareness and Communicating the Urgency to Act. This Conference gathered around 70 invited representatives of Water Operators, Water Operators Partnership Secretariats, Water Operators Associations, Donor Agencies and a selected number of NGOs. Sessions were held on WOPs as a platform for developing Communication and Corporate Social Responsibility Strategies, Communication and Information Practices and Connecting WOPs Support Mechanisms. The 2-day seminar then successfully culminated with

36 32 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue 07 CWWA S Global Outreach (continued) a networking session for the professionals. The Caribbean region was well represented by CWWA and CBWMP who are currently collaborating to establish the Caribbean Water Operators Partnership. The President s hectic last quarter of the year then concluded with a return trip to the Latin American region for the RCU/CAR-UNEP, UNDP & GEF CITMA & CIMAB Regional Workshop, Environmental Management of Bays and Coastal Zones in the Wider Caribbean held in Cuba on the 24th 27th December This 4-day workshop educated participants on a wide-range of areas regarding contaminated bays, the environmental quality and reforestation projects of watersheds such as the Havana Bay. There were also talks on Wastewater management and coastal management. CWWA was also able to discuss and feed into the findings of the consultants working on the GEF Caribbean Regional Fund for Wastewater Management (CReW) project and to provide support for the ongoing process. Participants at the 1st International Conference of the Global Water Operators Partnership Alliance - Raising Awareness and Communicating the Urgency to Act

37 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue CWWA S Global Outreach (continued) 2009 was quite a productive year for the CWWA with our participation in the aforementioned global and regional water and sanitation fora. CWWA will continue to be a strong advocate for these initiatives as they are critical for the development and improvement of the water/wastewater sector throughout the region. They are also critical if the multi-national agencies are to understand our unique circumstances and provide future support to the region also began as another successful year with the CWWA s continued commitment to participate in similar conferences and seminars. Starting in Jan. 20, 2010, CWWA was also pleased to share in the opening ceremonies of The American Membrane Technology Association (AMTA) - Technology Transfer Workshop Membrane Treatment in the Caribbean held in San Juan, Puerto Rico. As a keynote speaker, CWWA President Eng. Cyprian Gibson congratulated the industry on their contributions to the provision of water supply to the sector through private sector driven investments in Build Own Operate Contracts (BOO). The body was also challenged by the President to find similar type arrangements for small wastewater treatment units. (L to R): AMTA Executive Director Ian Watson, P.E., Keynote Speaker/CWWA President Cyprian Gibson, AMTA President Steve Duranceau, Ph.D., P.E., Keynote Speaker/CaribDA President Humphrey Gouverneur, Ir., and AMTA Board Member/Workshop Chair C. Robert Reiss, Ph.D., P.E. picture taken on Jan. 20, 2010 during the American Membrane Technology Association (AMTA) - Technology Transfer Workshop Membrane Treatment in the Caribbean held in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

38 34 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue 07 CWWA S Global Outreach (continued) The President also represented CWWA when he attended the National IWRM Symposium, convened from February 24-25, 2010 in Kingston, Jamaica. This two-day symposium saw the attendance of more than fifty persons from four GEF-IWCAM participating countries; Antigua & Barbuda, the Bahamas, St. Lucia and St. Kitts. The symposium under the theme: Planning for Tomorrow s Water Needs, Today, was organised, based on a meeting held last year between GEF-IWCAM, CEHI and the Government of Jamaica (GoJ) and covered Energy & Water, Tourism, Agriculture/Irrigation and the Environment. Among other presentations, the GEF-IWCAM Demo Project Manager for Jamaica presented on the Model for Sustainable Watershed Management: Case of the Drivers River Project. Priorities for consideration in revising the water sector policy, as identified by the breakout groups included: Alternative sources; efficient use and/ or reuse of water; role of private sector; housing settlement patterns; public awareness and education; and household on-site sewerage systems and public health risks. CWWA congratulates Jamaica for their advanced work in IWRM. CWWA also wishes to once again extend its appreciation to all of its regional and global partners for their support and is proud to participate as a global citizen to the advancement of the water, wastewater and solid waste sectors. We especially wish to recognise the Caribbean Environmental Health Institute, the GEF-IWCAM Project, UN- Habitat, The Inter-American Development Bank, the United Nations Environmental Program, the Caribbean Development Bank, CARICOM and CBWMP.

39 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue CWWA in the community CWWA Public Awareness Campaigns The Inter-American Water Day Schools Competition The Inter-American Water Day is promoted by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the Inter- American Association of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering (AIDIS), the Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA) and later on the Organisation of American States (OAS). According to the Biblioteca Virtual en Salud y Ambiente (Online Health and Environment Library), the primary objectives of this Inter-American Water Day are to: highlight the relationship between water and good health, educate and create awareness among the public about its proper and efficient use, and foster ongoing water-related activities at the school age population and the community at large. Therefore, the CWWA and partners of this initiative have run various school competitions in Trinidad and Tobago over the years to commemorate this important day. The Seventeenth Inter-American Water Day celebrations were commemorated in November 2009 at WASA, Trinidad. The theme was Clean Water, Survival is in our Hands. The planning committee consisted of representatives of the Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA), the Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA), the Ministry of Health, the Environmental Management Authority (EMA) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education. Here, we highlight the 14th, 15th 16th and 17th IAWD School Competitions. 14th IAWD SCHOOL COMPETITION 2006 Water and Culture 15th IAWD SCHOOL COMPETITION 2007 Coping With Water Scarcity 2007 Winner with his book prize 2007 Winner and her piece

40 36 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue 07 CWWA in the community CWWA Public Awareness Campaigns (continued) 16th IAWD SCHOOL COMPETITION 2008 Safer Water, Better Health All 2008 IAWD Winners 2008 Winners with their pieces 17th IAWD SCHOOL COMPETITION 2008 Clean Water, Survival is in our Hands All 2009 IAWD Winners CWWA President-Elect Wayne Williams; Overall winner - Chantal Landeau of the Gasparillo Secondary School

41 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue CWWA in the community CWWA Public Awareness Campaigns (continued) The CWWA How Do My Actions Affect My Environment? Campaign The main objectives of this public awareness campaign are: To increase awareness for CWWA with the general public (publics external to CWWA members and affiliates) and To promote education and training in Water Supply and Wastewater Disposal to ensure an adequacy of trained manpower and well-informed members of the public. The CWWA has held the following three Creative Art Competitions in Trinidad and Tobago in accordance with this campaign. The Creative Art Competition held in Trinidad and Tobago uses the flying kite as a canvas, since this is unique to the culture of the twin-island state. Competitors consisting of youths, depicted the particular competition s theme on the kite. Information on the environment is provided to this cross-section of individuals. Here are some previous outstanding winning entries: 3rd ANNUAL CREATIVE ART COMPETITION 2009 Eliminating water misuse, the GREEN way! 2nd ANNUAL CREATIVE ART COMPETITION 2009 Coping with Water Scarcity 2009 Winning Entries Winning group members with their portrayal

42 38 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue 07 CWWA in the community The Caribbean Water and Wastewater Association (CWWA) Environmental Challenge and Treasure Hunt. The CWWA Environmental Challenge and Treasure Hunt was held on Sunday 3rd September, It ran along the North bound lane of the Uriah Buzz Butler Highway with the start point at Grand Bazaar Car Park and the end point at the WASA Car Park, St. Joseph, Trinidad. The purpose of the challenge and treasure hunt was to bring awareness to all the areas which are now being used as illegal dump sites and the waterways which are being polluted as a result and the low lying residential communities which are affected by these upstream dumping practices. The event saw the participation of approximately 7 teams from throughout the country. Environment Rally Winners Participants Participants

43 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue CHILDREN / YOUTH ON CLIMATE CHANGE recommended by ENG. RONALD WILLIAMS. SUBJECT TITLE AUTHOR PUBLISHER 1. What is it all about? Jessica Wilson & Magpie Bocks, GLOBAL WARMING Stephen Law London 2. The Rough Guide to Robert Hensen Penguin Group CLIMATE CHANGE UK 3. GLOBAL WARMING Michael Tennesen Alpha (Penguin Group, USA) 4. CANADA and the New Tony Clarke James Lorimer Politics of Oil in an age of & Company. Ltd. CLIMATE CHANGE

44 40 CARIBBEAN Flow Issue 07 SAVE THE DATE!!! 2010 CWWA Conference & Exhibition: Water, Waste and Climate Change: a New Decade of Challenges and Opportunities

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