The Barbados Water Authority (BWA) has confirmed that there will be no immediate changes to the Garbage and Sewage Contribution (GSC) levy, a critical funding mechanism for the Sanitation Service Authority (SSA). Acting CEO Christopher Mapp emphasized the levy’s importance during a recent press conference, stating that it remains vital for sustaining sanitation operations across the island. While the levy’s name is set to transition to a ‘sustainability levy,’ its purpose and rate will remain unchanged. Currently set at $45 per domestic and commercial bill, the levy funds the operation of sewage treatment plants in Bridgetown and the south coast, as well as broader sanitation sustainability efforts. Mapp revealed that the BWA collects approximately $5 million monthly from water bills on behalf of the SSA, with $700,000 weekly coming from the sewage portion. Introduced in 2018, the GSC levy was designed to generate $60 million annually to reduce reliance on government funding. However, rising expenses and inflation have strained its effectiveness. Mapp acknowledged the financial challenges faced by both the BWA and SSA but stressed the levy’s continued necessity. Meanwhile, senior engineer Brian Stewart provided updates on the South Coast Sewage Treatment Plant, with construction expected to begin in April 2026. Plans for additional wastewater plants on the west coast remain under review as part of the broader sanitation master plan. These efforts aim to address infrastructure needs driven by population growth and development while ensuring environmental compliance.