Labasa is hindered from becoming a tourism hotspot due to inadequate waste disposal practices, according to Dr. Joeli Veitayaki, a strategic advisor for Blue Prosperity Fiji. He highlighted the significant issue of improper plastic waste disposal, noting that these materials take years to decompose and create unattractive and unhygienic conditions that deter potential visitors.
Speaking at a workshop hosted by the Wildlife Conservation Society, Dr. Veitayaki also pointed out that the unnecessary burning of forests and sugarcane fields exacerbates this issue. He explained that such practices contribute to air pollution while destroying natural habitats and diminishing the town’s visual appeal. The repeated burning activities release harmful emissions into the atmosphere.
Dr. Veitayaki emphasized the need for improved waste management systems and stricter land use regulations to effectively tackle these problems. In response to these concerns, Samuela Ligairi, the special administrator of the Labasa Town Council, mentioned that new rubbish bins have been installed throughout the town to encourage proper waste disposal. He expressed hope that this initiative will help mitigate the problem of improper trash disposal.