Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has emphasized the immediate need to enhance the enforcement and implementation of the Litter Act 2008 through a comprehensive review.
During a session in Parliament on Wednesday, he highlighted the importance of protecting Fiji’s islands and unique ecosystems, noting that many citizens exhibit “bad habits” concerning littering. He shared observations from his previous visits to China and Japan, where he noted the cleanliness of roads and public areas. Rabuka pointed out that the current enforcement mechanisms are insufficient.
“The fine is $40, whether one is found dumping a car, a fridge, or a plastic bag, the penalty remains $40,” he stated.
He mentioned the ministry’s efforts to bolster enforcement, which remains a critical issue. To date, 18 training workshops have been conducted for both public and non-public authorities in Fiji, resulting in the training and appointment of 598 litter prevention officers.
In 2019, during the tenure of the FijiFirst government, all 14 provinces sent provincial conservation and litter enforcement officers for training under the 2008 Act. Rabuka indicated that there is a new training plan in development for additional litter prevention officers for this fiscal year.
Despite these advancements, Rabuka acknowledged that the Litter Act is outdated, lacking necessary definitions and distinctions crucial for effective enforcement.
“The Act is currently under review, and consultations are in progress to present the Review Act to Cabinet. The ministry recognizes the existing deficiencies in both the Litter Act 2008 and its 2010 amendment,” he said.