The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change actively participated in a successful coastal cleanup on February 15, spearheaded by the Pacific Ocean Litter Youth Project (POLYP) and the Pac Harbour Crew in Navua. This event saw over 50 participants gather, including staff from the Namosi Provincial Council and Eco Guardians Fiji, who collectively removed more than 300 kilograms of waste from the coastline within just 90 minutes.
During the cleanup, POLYP conducted litter assessments and brand audits, which are essential steps in understanding the sources and types of pollution affecting coastal areas. The initiative also included an engaging art project for local children and youth, who transformed collected litter into creative artworks, emphasizing the importance of reusing materials instead of discarding them.
Attorney General Hon. Graham Leung attended the event and reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting community-led environmental initiatives. This partnership aligns with the Ministry’s broader effort under the “Do the Right Thing” National Anti-Litter Campaign, which aims to foster environmental stewardship and reduce pollution throughout Fiji.
Reflecting on the importance of community involvement in environmental preservation, this event highlights a growing awareness among the Fijian public about the necessity of maintaining clean and sustainable coastal environments. Just as similar events in Davuilevu and Nausori have illustrated, these clean-up campaigns serve not only to clear waste but also to instill a sense of responsibility among the youth regarding environmental health.
In conclusion, initiatives like this foster hope and demonstrate that collective action can lead to positive change, creating a cleaner and more sustainable future for Fiji.
Leave a comment