An evaluation of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States Solid Waste Education Program, 2000--2006

This study used comparative analysis to evaluate the Solid Waste Management Education Programs (SWMEP) of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) before and after 2003, with a view to determining the effectiveness of the education programs. The programs had not been evaluated since 2003 when the World Bank completed an initial study, but since then the countries were made responsible for funding their own programs. Using mixed methods including interviews and questionnaires, this study investigated both the public education component and institutional support structure in each of four member states before and after the external sponsorship period. Positive elements of the existing programs were identified, expanded and incorporated into recommendations provided as a conclusion to the study. Interviews and questionnaires result point to the fact that more funding, human resources, strategic programming and consistency in delivery of programs are necessary to improve and maintain public awareness in waste management.