Mobay Chamber boss optimistic about 'My Mobay' cleanup campaign success

WESTERN BUREAU:

President of the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MBCCI), Gloria Henry, says she remains committed to fulfilling the mandate of her organisation's 'My MoBay' anti-litter education campaign, despite citizens' continued disregard of solid waste management regulations.

Asked about the chances of success for the 'My MoBay' campaign, particularly following recent cases of flooding there resulting from blocked drains and gullies, Henry said the programme's success will rely on environmental stakeholders coming together to spread the message about proper garbage disposal and prosecution of violators of the Anti-Litter Act.

"We have to have the support of all the environmental stakeholders and the policymakers as it relates to enforcing the law and making sure that the policy gets adequate support," said Henry.

"It has to be a holistic and a very inclusive and extensive programme.

"We started with downtown Montego Bay, and we have tried to reach the business community and the schools, but our next phase is to take the programme into the different communities, to educate the people and to help to change behaviours, and for them to understand the importance of the environment," Henry added.

The 'My MoBay' campaign, which was launched in July 2015, is geared towards improving the aesthetics of the Second City by educating the public on matters of civic pride, including refraining from urinating in public places and wanton disposal of garbage.