A newly-constructed E-garburator project that aims to address proper waste management for households was commissioned at Lauwaki Village in Lautoka early this week.
The eco-based dumpsites that will efficiently convert the community waste into valuable composted manure are part of a Flagship E-garburator 50 Program launched recently by Fiji’s Ministry of Environment.
Speaking during the launch of the community-based program, Minister for Waterways and Environment Dr Mahendra Reddy noted the significance of proper waste disposal and management among the communities.
Mr Reddy alluded to the improper disposal of waste, which threatened the environment and health of the community.
“First and foremost we are very concerned about the waste that is generated in households and when improperly disposed of, this leads to numerous implications on the health and wellbeing of the community,” Dr Reddy said.
“Improper waste disposal can become a health hazard, which can lead to breeding grounds for bacteria and causing illness.
Mr Reddy added the E-garburator project would not only help the villagers in proper waste management but also boost agricultural activities in the village.
“About 80 per cent of the waste generated in the households can be converted into usable product which is manure.
“Instead of buying inorganic fertilizers, which are a threat to our environment and health, we want people to convert the degradable waste into a compost, organic manure and utilise that in their farms and in the back yard garden to produce organic and healthy vegetables.”
More than 20 villagers were trained by the Ministry of Environment on the compositing guidelines that will help guide villagers on the various processes of compositing.
