United Nations Waste Incinerator Transitional Administration in East Timor (UNTAET)

United Nations Waste Incinerator Transitional Administration in East Timor (UNTAET)

Introduction:

The United Nations Waste Incinerator Transitional Administration (UNTAET) was a temporary administration established in East Timor (Timor-Leste) in 1999 after the Indonesian occupation ended. One of UNTAET’s key responsibilities was to manage the highly polluted Dili Waste Incinerator, a major environmental hazard in the capital city.

Background:

During the Indonesian occupation, the Dili Waste Incinerator was poorly maintained and operated, leading to widespread air pollution and health concerns. The international community recognized the need for a temporary administration to address the immediate environmental and public health risks associated with the incinerator.

Goals of UNTAET:

• To stabilize and secure the incinerator facility.
• To improve the operational and management practices of the incinerator.
• To reduce air pollution and protect public health.
• To prepare for the eventual handover of the incinerator to the East Timorese government.

Activities and Achievements:

• Assessment and maintenance of the incinerator equipment and infrastructure.
• Development of operational and environmental management plans.
• Training of East Timorese staff on waste management and incineration operations.
• Implementation of measures to reduce air pollution, including the installation of pollution control equipment.

Challenges:

• Limited resources and infrastructure.
• Political and security instability in East Timor.
• Lack of local expertise in waste management.

Transition and Handover:

In 2002, UNTAET transferred the responsibility for the Dili Waste Incinerator to the East Timorese government. The government continued to operate and maintain the incinerator, with technical assistance from the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).

FAQs:

1. What was the main purpose of UNTAET?

The purpose of UNTAET was to provide temporary administration and management of the Dili Waste Incinerator to address environmental and health risks.

2. How did UNTAET address air pollution?

UNTAET installed pollution control equipment and implemented measures to improve operational practices, reducing air pollution significantly.

3. When did UNTAET handover the incinerator to East Timor?

UNTAET transferred the incinerator to the East Timorese government in 2002.

4. What was the impact of UNTAET’s work?

UNTAET’s efforts improved air quality in Dili and created a foundation for sustainable waste management in East Timor.

5. What happened to the incinerator after UNTAET left?

The East Timorese government continues to operate and maintain the incinerator.