More than 22,000 plastic bottles and aluminum cans have been collected in Lautoka under the innovative return-and-earn initiative, with the local council disbursing approximately $1,200 to participating residents. Minister for Local Government Maciu Nalumisa emphasized that this program is effectively curbing illegal dumping and assisting councils in addressing Fiji’s escalating waste challenge.
During a recent address in Lautoka, Nalumisa encouraged citizens to return empty bottles and aluminum cans to their municipal council in exchange for five cents per item. He stated, “We have encouraged people at our municipalities to assist the council by returning aluminum cans and any empty bottles they may have at home.”
The initiative, now implemented in most councils nationwide, aims to transform public attitudes towards reckless and illegal waste disposal. Nalumisa urged communities, schools, and individuals to gather recyclables instead of contributing to landfills or improper dumping practices.
To combat illegal dumping further, the Lautoka City Council plans to install five portable, solar-powered CCTV cameras in areas known for littering. The Minister also appealed to residents to report any instances of illegal rubbish dumping, reinforcing the importance of shared responsibility in maintaining a clean environment.
Nalumisa concluded by highlighting that effective waste management begins at home, urging everyone to play a part in keeping Fiji clean and safeguarding the environment for future generations.
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