Local Government Minister Maciu Nalumisa has emphasized the importance of creating communities free from litter and environmental hazards, particularly in light of the growing threats posed by climate change. He made this statement during the launch of the Return and Earn initiative, a collaborative effort involving Mission Pacific and various municipal councils, aimed at transforming environmental stewardship into a viable community practice.
Minister Nalumisa highlighted the alarming statistics regarding waste, noting that every year, significant quantities of PET bottles and aluminum cans pollute streets, drainage systems, and natural environments across the region. He articulated the initiative’s goal of turning this waste into an opportunity for income, stating, “Every PET bottle and aluminum can have value. We are turning waste into income,” and underscored the ambition to shift community engagement from passive consumption to active recycling.
The initiative also seeks to empower residents by instilling a sense of responsibility towards their environment. It provides incentives for youth to collect bottles and cans, an effort that has shown promising results, such as reduced rates of youth vandalism and increased participation in community clean-up efforts. Nalumisa proudly noted that these actions also help youth earn pocket money while contributing positively to their surroundings.
In discussing the broader implications, the Minister addressed the economic costs associated with flooding, emphasizing that keeping plastics out of drainage systems can mitigate these issues and preserve public infrastructure. Furthermore, he pointed out the environmental benefits of reducing plastic waste in landfills, which contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. By deviating plastics from dump sites, Fiji can strengthen its commitment to global environmental standards.
Nalumisa encouraged all community members—including youths, parents, students, retirees, businesses, and visitors—to engage with the Return and Earn Fiji initiative and take part in this environmental solution. “Earn your five cents per beverage container,” he concluded, reinforcing the notion that every small action can lead to significant environmental impact. The initiative represents a hopeful step towards building more sustainable and resilient communities, inspiring collective action for a cleaner future.
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