According to Tema Bui, a representative from Mali Island, waste from Labasa Town is beginning to accumulate on the island’s shores. In recent weeks, there has been a noticeable increase in rubbish, including plastics, metals, and other debris making its way to Mali.
Ms. Bui expressed her concerns, stating, “Our shore was once known for its cleanliness. It has now become a dumping ground for trash that was not properly disposed of in Labasa Town.” During a Wildlife Conservation Society workshop, she highlighted the issue of nearby settlements using mangroves swamps as informal dumping locations.
“This practice exacerbates the pollution problem, with discarded materials clogging mangrove roots and endangering local wildlife,” she said. Blue Prosperity Fiji strategic advisor Joeli Veitayaki commented on the situation, explaining that waves can carry debris far from its source.
“People upstream might initially be spared the waste, but it eventually flows downstream,” Mr. Veitayaki noted. “The trash can reach the river mouth where the tide sends it to sea. However, winds and currents often bring it back to shore. This is how it ends up on this island.” He emphasized that public littering is both unnecessary and unacceptable.