The Naboro landfill has the capacity to operate for an additional 60 years, according to landfill manager Mark Hirst-Tuilau. He emphasized the need to change the perception that the landfill is nearing its capacity and is environmentally damaging.
Hirst-Tuilau explained that while the landfill was originally designed to last for 50 years based on a density of 900 kilograms per cubic meter, improvements have allowed it to accommodate more waste within the same space. “If we’re now managing to achieve 1.3 tonnes per cubic meter, that represents an increase of over 50 percent in the volume of waste we can store,” he said.
He likened it to having a shed filled with items, noting that the more items that can fit into that space, the fewer sheds need to be constructed. This increased capacity could extend the landfill’s lifespan significantly. Hirst-Tuilau speculated that if they can push the longevity from 50 to 75 years, it could prevent the need for additional landfill sites for 35 to 40 years.
Additionally, he mentioned that the government is in discussions with key stakeholders about the potential for Fiji to become a zero-landfill nation. “While there are countries that have achieved zero landfill status, Fiji is not there yet, but initiatives focusing on recycling and waste diversion are underway,” he said.
Hirst-Tuilau also described the existing landfill sites as potential sources of energy for future technology. He noted, “These areas won’t just be forgotten; even past dump sites can be repurposed for energy needs as technology progresses.” He acknowledged that the necessary technology and economic factors are still developing, but remains optimistic about future advancements in this field.