Building Civic Pride: The Key to a Greener Fiji

The Permanent Secretary of the Environment Ministry, Dr. Sivendra Michael, has emphasized the essential need for both policy and behavioral changes to enhance civic pride and environmental respect within communities. Dr. Michael acknowledged that although waste management efforts in Fiji are showing gradual improvement, there is still significant work to be done.

He pointed out the limitations of the current waste management system, stating that there is only one landfill serving seven municipalities, which raises questions about its sustainability. To address this issue, Dr. Michael suggested that more stringent fines for environmentally damaging practices could promote greater respect for the environment. He explained that the existing Environment Management Act of 2005 primarily applies to public spaces and does not effectively address pollution from private residences, such as burning garbage at home.

Dr. Michael highlighted the importance of establishing regulations that would foster a culture of ethical waste management in communities. He believes that implementing fines would deter irresponsible environmental behavior and promote a sense of accountability among individuals. The focus, he noted, is on changing mindsets and instilling grassroots initiatives, which start from values taught within families.

Parents play a crucial role in this educational process, as children often learn about environmental responsibility from their caregivers. Dr. Michael suggested that schools could reinforce these values by promoting green practices like composting. He reminisced about his own experiences with school composting and encouraged the revival of such initiatives in current educational curriculums.

This proactive approach to environmental stewardship not only seeks to enhance community involvement but also underscores the significance of education in shaping responsible behaviors towards the environment.

In summary, the call for policy enhancement along with community and educational involvement highlights an optimistic pathway toward improving waste management practices in Fiji. By fostering a collaborative culture, there is hope for a cleaner, more sustainable future for all.