Logging and the extraction of mineral resources have affected the traditional fishing grounds of coastal villages in Bua, according to the province’s conservation representative Aisea Rabitukoli.
Mr Rabitukoli said soil eradication and pollution had contaminated the water and disrupted marine life, leading to a decline in fish populations.
“This has also led to the release of toxic substances,” he said.
Mr Rabitukoli told a workshop organised by the Wildlife Conservation Society these problems had impacted the livelihood of villagers who relied on their traditional fishing grounds as a source of income.
“Villagers have lost hundreds of dollars due to the impact caused by the extraction of mineral resources and logging.
“While some people have turned to alternative livelihoods, others remain hopeful.”
In response, Blue Prosperity Fiji strategic advisor Joeli Veitayaki said the issue was not confined to Bua alone but to other provinces as well.
“People are still discussing the damage caused by years of mining activities in Mount Kasi,” Mr Veitayaki said.
“There are areas nearby where people avoid fishing due to the toxic materials flowing into the sea.”
Mr Veitayaki said mining operations had left a lasting scar on the environment.
“Residents have reported seeing a noticeable decrease in fish numbers in their traditional fishing grounds,” he said, adding that development had come at heavy price in certain parts of the country.
