The TWM Group recently celebrated the opening of the first world-class industrial waste management facility in the Pacific Islands. Located in Roku, Central Province, this hazardous waste landfill is a pioneering initiative in Oceania, outside of Australia and New Zealand.
The facility marks the completion of stage one of Papua New Guinea’s comprehensive waste management strategy. It sets a new standard for environmental protection in PNG and the Pacific Islands, providing advanced solutions for hazardous waste treatment.
Over 150 key stakeholders attended the event, including Acting Prime Minister Hon. John Rosso, European Union Ambassador Jacques Fradin, and representatives from the Australian High Commission and the US Embassy. The occasion also honoured the traditional custodians of the land and acknowledged community figures.
A highlight of the event was the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by Hon. John Rosso, TWM Group Managing Director Mr. Kori Chan, and Group CEO Mr. Michael Chan, Jr.
Reflecting on the journey that led to the facility’s establishment, CEO Michael Chan spoke passionately about their commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable practices:
“This hazardous waste landfill is not just a facility but a symbol of our commitment to setting a global standard in waste management. It represents a crucial step towards building a circular economy and advancing waste management practices in Papua New Guinea and the Pacific region.”
Chan expressed gratitude for the support received and emphasised TWM’s alignment with the United Nations’ sustainable development goals.
Regarding TWM’s operational transparency and commitment to national development goals, Chan stated:
“As a national company, our priorities include supporting the PNG government in achieving its medium-term development goals. We aim to do this by aligning with existing policies and regulations, and by enhancing waste management and recycling frameworks.”
The event concluded with a panel discussion by experts, detailing the rigorous process and regulatory compliance involved in delivering the project to world-class standards. TWM’s achievement of a Level 3 Environment Permit from the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA) marked a milestone in their adherence to stringent environmental and social protection standards.
The Level 3 Environment Permit (EPL-485) is the first issued to a waste management company in PNG and includes over 127 conditions aimed at ensuring maximum environmental protection.
The facility, designed over three stages with capacities ranging from 13,000m3 to 130,000m3, adheres to US EPA, AUS EPA, and British standards for hazardous waste management.
Constructed over three stages:
- Stage 1: Size 10,800m2 Capacity: 13,000m3
- Stage 2: Size 12,000m2 Capacity: 45,000m3
- Stage 3: Size 14,000m2 Capacity: 130,000m3
TWM also celebrated its exemplary safety and environmental performance, with a flawless safety record throughout the project’s duration. Gerarda Mark, the QHSSE Advisor, highlighted the company’s commitment to maintaining exceptional safety and environmental standards.
Acting Prime Minister Rosso applauded TWM’s efforts and underscored the facility’s importance for PNG’s waste management capabilities and environmental sustainability efforts:
“This hazardous waste treatment plant represents a critical advancement in our waste management capabilities and sets a new benchmark for the region. It exemplifies the vision and perseverance of TWM in leading sustainable development.”
Rosso highlighted ongoing challenges in waste management and expressed optimism that the facility would inspire similar initiatives across the Pacific Islands.
TWM, as a PNG-owned company, reaffirmed its commitment to innovation and collaboration with government and stakeholders to enhance local capabilities and global standards in waste management.
The opening of the landfill not only displayed TWM’s achievements but also sets a precedent for future developments in the waste management sector.
Mr Chan left guests with a powerful reminder of all people being custodians of the PNG land.
He said, “We often say, yumi no faul man. Meaning, we know where our land is, we know where we belong. If we can no longer live on our land and be sustained by it, then it means we have no home, we have no identity, we have nothing. We must do all we can to protecting our pristine environment and our people.”
