EFFECTIVE waste management in the city requires a 50/50 approach between the Suva City Council (SCC) and the community.
Council chair Tevita Boseiwaqa highlighted this while addressing ongoing waste issues along the Suva-Nausori corridor, pointing out that poor waste management practices exacerbate rubbish pile-ups.
Mr Boseiwaqa said while the council had made significant efforts this year to clean Suva’s streets, community support was crucial to maintaining a clean environment.
“We are able to see and identify the solution — that’s our 50 percent part, the Suva City Council’s part,” Mr Boseiwaqa said.
“The other 50 percent is from the communities. It’s unachievable to have a very clean environment, a clean Suva, without the support of our residents.”
He said the council had focused on areas requiring special attention, such as Raiwai by providing additional bins and engaging in targeted clean-up efforts.
However, challenges remain, particularly with residents’ waste disposal habits.
“We are thinking of right now, festive season, to try and at least an extra round collection. This year, we’ve been talking to some communities, but I think next year we’ll be doing it full force, engaging the communities.”
Mr Boseiwaqa expressed optimism for 2024, noting that the council has made progress in organising its staff and operations.
“We’ve hit the right chord now for our staff.
“From January, we should be able to move forward and make greater improvements,” he said.
