Fostering Civic Pride: Is Fiji Ready for Tougher Environmental Rules?

The Ministry of Environment’s permanent secretary, Dr. Sivendra Michael, emphasizes the need for both policy and behavioral shifts to enhance civic pride and environmental respect among communities. He acknowledges that while Fiji’s waste management has shown improvement over time, significant challenges remain.

Dr. Michael pointed out the reliance on a single landfill that services seven municipalities, raising concerns about the sustainability of waste management practices. He advocates for stricter fines to promote environmental respect, noting that the current Environment Management Act primarily addresses public spaces and lacks authority over private properties. This gap means that actions such as burning waste at home often go unregulated.

He believes that establishing clearer regulations could foster a community culture aware of ethical waste management. By understanding that irresponsible practices lead to fines for individuals, Dr. Michael argues that a collective mindset toward environmental responsibility can develop. He stresses the importance of grassroots initiatives and highlights the role of parents in shaping children’s attitudes towards these issues.

Education is a vital component of this initiative. Dr. Michael suggests integrating environmental practices, such as composting, into school curricula to encourage children to adopt greener habits. He reflects on his own educational experiences with composting and advocates for reinstating such practices in schools to cultivate a culture of environmental stewardship from a young age.

This approach not only aims to tackle current waste management issues but also hopes to empower future generations to embrace sustainable practices. Positive change is indeed possible through collective action, education, and community engagement to foster a cleaner and more environmentally conscious society.

Overall, revitalizing civic pride and environmental accountability revolves around community efforts, enhancing legislation, and nurturing an educational environment that values sustainability.