The Lautoka City Council is successfully managing waste and generating revenue through an effective green waste composting program, as highlighted by Local Government Minister Maciu Nalumisa during a recent parliamentary meeting. In 2024, the council collected 174 tonnes of green waste, resulting in the sale of 14.8 tonnes of compost, which brought in approximately $5,000 in revenue. Cumulatively, since 2011, the council has collected around 2,500 tonnes of green waste, producing 147 tonnes of compost that generated nearly $45,000.
Minister Nalumisa stressed the critical need for managing toxic waste at the Vunato landfill, which plays a central role in their waste management strategy. Efforts are underway to better control operations at the landfill, including regulating scavengers who seek recyclable materials. The council is working in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment to address these issues effectively.
Tackling challenges associated with the Vunato dump, which processes around 75.5 tonnes of waste daily, is part of broader discussions around developing a long-term waste management plan. This includes conducting feasibility studies for new sanitary landfills to reduce the burden on existing sites. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is actively involved in these studies to identify potential locations for new dumpsites that mitigate environmental concerns.
Additionally, there is an emphasis on promoting recycling and reducing waste at its source, which is beneficial for both the environment and the local community. The positive developments in waste management initiatives reflect a strong commitment to protecting the environment while working towards a sustainable future for Lautoka and Fiji at large.
This collaborative effort between various government bodies and local councils illustrates a unified approach to the challenges of waste management, showcasing a dedication to environmental sustainability and the well-being of the community. The success of these initiatives not only helps in revenue generation but also promotes a cleaner, healthier environment, fostering optimism about future improvements in waste management practices.
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