Welcome to RMIEPA (English)

The Republic of the Marshall Islands
Environmental Protection Authority
SOLID WASTE

Solid waste issue is the most imminent environmental problem facing the Marshall Islands. The change in lifestyle towards conspicuous consumption of imported goods with a high degree of high packaging has meant that waste has shifted from being largely biodegradable in the past to being significantly non-biodegradable in recent years. Increased amount of vehicles and heavy equipments also put more burden to our fragile atoll environment.

Roles of the EPA Solid Waste Management Department

To reduce environmental impact from waste and pollutants
To assist community in managing solid waste and pollutants
To identify sources and stockpiles of hazardous wastes and chemicals
To monitor and regulate dump site

Recycling and Waste Minimization Effort in RMI

Like other atoll nations, recycling activities are not very viable means of waste minimization because of the high cost associated with collection, crushing, packaging and off-island shipment, as well as the lack of baling equipments.