The High Commission completed solid and liquid waste collection works around the Samos HVAC in Vathi

(Published on the 31/12/2020 by SamosTimes)

Vathi, Samos - The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), at the request of the Reception and Identification Service, proceeded with solid and liquid waste collection projects from areas surrounding the Reception and Identification Center of the Rehabilitation Center. Samos.

Specifically, 280 tons of waste that had been collected in the two streams along the KYT and in an area north of it were removed mainly by mechanical means. The work, which lasted about three weeks, is part of a multifaceted plan to tackle waste accumulation with the aim of improving the safety and hygiene conditions prevailing in the area, as well as protecting public health and the environment. At the same time, with the completion of the project, disinfestations and rodenticides are carried out at the KYT and with the contribution of the High Commission.

"Our goal is to intervene, raise awareness, but also to jointly mobilize asylum seekers, the authorities and the interested humanitarian bodies to find practical solutions, so that the premises are kept clean, despite the adverse conditions," said the head. Office of Y.A. in Samos, Mrs. Pipina Katsari. "At the same time, we are informing the population of KYT, activating dozens of volunteers from the various communities, who contribute to the dissemination of messages, the submission of proposals and the coordinated daily activities of voluntary cleaning", adds Ms. Katsari.

In addition, Y.A. has donated 8,000 garbage bags, 360 reusable work gloves, 300 pairs of wellies and 300 waterproof work pants, 30 shovels and rakes, as well as personal hygiene items including masks and antiseptics to Just Action for cleaning activities. In addition, more than 10,000 cotton reusable bags are available for alternative use to plastics for embedding environmentally friendly habits. Also, the order of two press containers, which are intended for the Municipality of Eastern Samos, has already proceeded, thus assisting the efforts of the Authorities to improve waste management. The High Commission would like to thank the Administration of KYT Samos, the Municipality of Eastern Samos and the Regional Unit of Samos for the excellent cooperation, but also the humanitarian organizations Just Action, Movement on the Ground and Praksis that contributed to the smooth conduct of the work.