The Suva City Council has officially launched its Health Department Compost Facility as part of the Return and Earn Initiative, providing a new collection point for residents to exchange empty bottles and cans for cash. This initiative is a significant step towards addressing waste management challenges in the capital city.
Acting CEO Tevita Boseiwaqa emphasized that while the primary goal is waste control, it also aims to safeguard public health and enhance living standards. He stated, “This will help us to improve our quality of life. The air we breathe and where we stay impact our health. So with the improvement of waste management, that will certainly help us to lift our quality of life.”
Local resident Salesh Sharma has expressed support for the program, noting that it not only encourages families to participate in waste reduction but also offers them a financial incentive. “Every week at home, we are bringing about four to five cartons of water. So now, whatever bottles I have, at least I get some money out of them,” he explained. Sharma is also advocating for collective action to maintain a clean environment, saying, “To make our environment, our community beautiful, we have to do something. We have to take the initiative from our side to make the environment clean.”
In an effort to maintain the facility’s efficiency, the Council is advising the public to thoroughly clean their bottles and cans before returning them to the collection center. The facility is poised to serve residents within the Suva-Nausori corridor, contributing positively to community health and environmental sustainability.
This initiative not only encourages responsible waste disposal but also fosters a sense of community involvement and stewardship towards the environment. As more residents participate, the collective impact can lead to a cleaner and healthier Suva.
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