Bonaire Government Takes Action on Persistent Landfill Fires

The Bonaire Island Government has officially warned local waste management company SELIBON: stop the ongoing fires at the Lagun landfill by April 1—or the government will step in and take action at SELIBON’s expense.

Fires have been smoldering underground at the Lagun site for months, posing serious health and environmental risks. Despite repeated inspections and warnings, SELIBON has failed to implement effective fire control or prevention measures. The government is now preparing to enforce compliance through administrative coercion—a legal mechanism that allows direct intervention when public safety is at stake.

Public Health and Groundwater at Risk

Along with extinguishing current fires, SELIBON is also required to cover inactive sections of the landfill. This is necessary to prevent soil contamination and protect groundwater. According to inspections by the Directorate of Supervision and Enforcement, SELIBON has no operational fire safety plan or sustainable waste management strategy in place—both of which are required by law.

What Happens Next?

If SELIBON fails to meet its obligations by the deadline, the Island Government will carry out the necessary work and send SELIBON the bill.

Delayed Enforcement Due to Temporary Federal Takeover

The enforcement process was stalled in recent months when the Dutch Representative temporarily took over legal authority on waste regulation at Lagun. However, no corrective action was taken during that time. A recent court ruling has now overturned this intervention, returning full authority to the local government—and clearing the way for swift enforcement.

“We’re Done Waiting”

Bonaire’s Executive Council has made it clear: this situation can’t continue. Fires at the landfill threaten the health of nearby residents and damage the island’s fragile environment. SELIBON has had ample time to act.

“We’re no longer waiting. If SELIBON doesn’t do its job, we will,” the government stated. The people of Bonaire deserve a clean, safe and responsibly managed waste facility. The clock is ticking.