It is encouraging to note that work is being done to protect our environment, and there is significant investment poured in this direction.
The announcement of a $100,000 allocation for the installation of trashboom equipment along the Suva-Nausori corridor and Nadi is great.
Funds were allocated to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change for this purpose.
According to Environment and Climate Change Minister Mosese Bulitavu in Parliament on Monday, the equipment, a waste interception device used to prevent solid waste from reaching the ocean, was first installed at the Nubukalou Creek in Suva and has proved to be effective.
Since its installation in February, over 612kg of waste was collected. This demonstrates how targeted solutions can yield results.
However, we say while these devices may be valuable tools, they should not be long-term replacements for behavioural change at all levels of society.
So let’s face it, the Government’s decision to expand the trashboom installations reflects our growing litter problems.
It should be a reminder also of how reactive we are.
We should be proactive!
The allocation of an additional $48,000 to enforce the Litter Act and crack down on illegal dumping is welcome, but it highlights a troubling reality. Without sustained public participation and respect for environmental laws, our natural beauty and biodiversity is at risk!
We have to face the reality that true progress will come when we all take ownership of our impact on the environment.
Keeping our streets, our streams, and beaches clean begins with simple daily acts.
We must have the sense of responsibility to dispose our rubbish properly. No qualms about that!
Let’s reduce our use of single-use plastics. Let’s participate in clean-up campaigns and let’s assist in educating others who need to be made aware of these initiatives. It goes without saying that we must remind ourselves that no amount of money or legislation can replace the power of an engaged and responsible public.
Technology can help us manage waste, and laws can punish polluters. That’s a given!
However, a shift in public consciousness can prevent pollution in the first place. In fact it should be the way forward for us.
We must come together. All of us, from residents, businesses, schools, and leaders, to build a culture that values and protects our natural environment.
The Government cannot do this alone.
When we litter without thought, the costs fall not just on the environment, but on our national budget and future generations.
We should not be waiting for funds to be spent on cleaning up after us!
How irresponsible is that?
So let’s build a united front where the need for equipment like trashbooms becomes the exception, not the rule. That should be our collective goal!
