Municipal councils are intensifying their efforts to combat illegal littering, with significant enforcement actions already evident from the last financial year. The Lautoka City Council alone issued over 640 littering fines, while the Nasinu Council reported more than 400, underscoring a nationwide challenge that requires immediate attention.
In tandem with enhanced litter enforcement, the Permanent Secretary for Environment, Dr. Sivendra Michael, articulated that the councils are also pursuing comprehensive reforms in waste management. A key aspect of this initiative is the proposed transition towards waste-to-energy solutions, which aims to mitigate environmental impact while generating energy from waste materials.
Dr. Michael emphasized the regulatory nature of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, highlighting that any developmental projects must undergo the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process. “We understand the concerns of the public regarding the proposed waste-to-energy project, but it is essential to clarify that our role is strictly regulatory. Any development must go through an EIA screening process,” he stated.
Further addressing public apprehensions, Dr. Michael noted that no project could advance without thorough public consultation, technical evaluations, and environmental assessments. Decisions regarding these initiatives will be informed by environmental considerations and public feedback.
The Ministry reassures the public that it remains committed to adhering to established regulations and guidelines as discussions about waste-to-energy projects unfold. This commitment reflects a positive step towards a cleaner environment and more sustainable waste management practices that consider both public input and environmental health.
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