RETIRED civil servant Ro Aca Mataitini has called on the public to stop the habit of dumping rubbish along the roadside, saying the illegal practice is destroying the environment and endangering road users.
He made the plea during a clean-up drive yesterday, part of a weekly community initiative known as Viti Clean, which was launched by the Redstream Maivale Foundation at Nasali, Rewa on October 1 this year.
The clean-up started from 9am to midday, clearing rubbish on the roadside at Kasavu along the Kings Rd.
“In our first month alone, from the Wainibokasi bridge to Nasali landing, we picked up 32 bags of rubbish,” Ro Aca said.
“The following week, around the Wainibokasi Hospital bus stop, we collected 35 bags of rubbish. It is amazing how people can continue to dump so carelessly.”
To encourage better habits, Ro Aca introduced a recycling initiative, including buying plastic bottles from students.
Within one month, 20 primary school students collected about 5940 bottles.
Ro Aca acknowledged community support, including Elijah Vakarau, who provides his vehicle for free to collect rubbish and transport it to allocated dumping sites.
“You must get that habit out of people; some still come with their garbage bags and dump them on the roadside.
“This is not anyone’s personal rubbish dump. If you have rubbish, take it to the proper dump sites in Nausori, Nasinu, or Suva.”
Rubbish, he said, affected the environment as it was a health hazard.
“My plea to government and all stakeholders — walk the talk.
“We talk so much about climate change and protecting the environment. This is the time to act.”
He also reminded the members of the public to act responsibly during the festive season.
“The environment is ours. Please, put your rubbish where it belongs.”
