The government of Antigua and Barbuda is working to expand local water testing capabilities to reduce reliance on overseas laboratories and ensure that water quality meets international standards.
During Thursday’s Cabinet press briefing, Chief of Staff Lionel Hurst acknowledged that while Antigua has in-country water testing facilities, some samples are still sent abroad for further analysis.
“We have water testing facilities, not only at APUA, where water is regularly tested on a daily basis, but also at some of the hotels and private operators who utilize their own testing mechanisms,” Hurst said.
“What they [the Japanese water treatment company] are doing is ensuring that the standards set by the Japanese government remain the standards in places like Antigua.”
Hurst noted that water treatment systems currently being piloted by a Japanese firm in Antigua send samples to Japan for verification.
However, he indicated that if a large-scale rollout of such systems takes place, local testing labs would likely take over monitoring to ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
The discussion on water testing arose in the context of a proposal by a Japanese company to introduce wastewater treatment units across Antigua and Barbuda.
These systems would allow for greater water conservation, particularly in commercial areas where businesses could reuse treated water for landscaping and non-drinking purposes.
Hurst also referenced the Antigua Distillery’s Oasis water production facility, which conducts its own testing while also sending samples to Canada for independent analysis.
“It’s not unusual for bottled water companies and production facilities to send their samples abroad for verification, ensuring that they meet the highest quality standards,” he said.
As the government explores new wastewater treatment solutions and expands desalination efforts, improving local testing capacity is expected to play a key role in Antigua’s water security strategy.
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Testing water we can’t get
It’s great to see Antigua taking steps to strengthen its water testing capabilities. Clean and safe drinking water is essential for public health, and improving testing methods will help ensure higher water quality standards. This is a crucial investment in the well-being of the population. However, while better testing is important, there also needs to be a focus on addressing existing water supply issues. Many residents still face shortages and inconsistent access, so improving infrastructure alongside testing should be a priority.
will the government provide regular public reports on water quality? Strengthening testing is a step in the right direction, but accountability and clear communication with the public will be just as important in building trust and ensuring long-term improvements.
will the government provide regular public reports on water quality? Strengthening testing is a step in the right direction, but accountability and clear communication with the public will be just as important in building trust and ensuring long-term improvements.
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