The Belizean Cabinet has formally endorsed a major infrastructure initiative to address sanitation challenges on the island of Caye Caulker. Government officials will now seek legislative approval from the House of Representatives for a sovereign-guarantee agreement securing a US$10 million loan from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to fund a comprehensive wastewater collection and treatment system.
According to Ervin Flores, resident consultant engineer at Belize Water Services Limited (BWSL), the picturesque island currently lacks proper sanitation infrastructure despite having potable water access. “One of the major gaps affecting the island is the absence of a centralized wastewater system,” Flores noted, explaining that existing homes and businesses rely on individual septic tanks or small package plants that don’t provide coordinated treatment.
The ambitious project will employ innovative vacuum pipe technology to transport wastewater from connected properties to a modern treatment facility. Flores emphasized that the system will “collect wastewater and treat it in a manner that exceeds effluent standards, ultimately enhancing environmental protection and public health outcomes for the community.”
With a total project valuation of US$13 million—combining the IDB loan, BWSL contributions, and supplemental grants—the infrastructure development represents a significant investment in the island’s future. Implementation will commence with a six-month procurement phase to acquire necessary equipment, followed by an estimated three-year construction period involving extensive road trenching and pipe network installation.
The initial phase will exclusively serve South Caye Caulker, the island’s more developed sector with higher population density and water consumption. North Caye Caulker will be considered for future expansion using potentially different, nature-based solutions due to budgetary constraints and the geographical challenge posed by the Split—a narrow water channel separating the two island sections.
BWSL officials report successful public consultations and widespread community support from both residents and business operators. Pending government approvals and preparatory work, construction is anticipated to commence in the first quarter of next year, marking a transformative step toward sustainable development for the popular tourist destination.