Waste management remains one of the most pressing environmental challenges facing Fiji and the world, says Lautoka City Council’s head of services Shalend Singh.
Speaking at the launch of the School Waste Management Initiative at Natabua High School, Mr Singh acknowledged the school for its initiative in empowering young people to become environmental stewards.
“Increasing urbanisation, changing consumption patterns, and the growing use of single-use plastics continue to place immense pressure on our environment,” Mr Singh said.
“Improperly managed waste pollutes our rivers, oceans, and communities, threatens biodiversity, and contributes to climate change.”
He said schools played a critical role in addressing these challenges.
“By introducing practical waste management systems, recycling programs, waste segregation practices, and environmental education, we are helping students understand that every action counts and that environmental responsibility begins with simple daily habits.”
Officiating at the launch Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Lynda Tabuya called on students of Natabua High School to lead the way towards a cleaner, greener and more resilient Fiji.
The initiative is a partnership between the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Ministry of Local Government, Ministry of Education and the Lautoka City Council.
It promotes the principles of Reduce, Reduce, and Recycle.
