environment
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Public Submissions Open for Fiji’s Vuda-Saweni Waste Project EIA as Government Clarifies Authority
Controversy over Fiji’s Vuda-Saweni waste project heats up as officials say the Environmental Impact Assessment must run its course, unless the proponent withdraws. Public submissions are open until April 22, with independent experts and social-impact reviews weighing in on the project’s future. A separate state-backed waste facility with international partners is moving forward in parallel,…
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FNU Elevates Fiji Forestry Education, Blending Indigenous Wisdom with Modern Science
Fiji’s forests face mounting threats—from deforestation to invasive species—that imperil climate, watersheds, and communities. A new forestry program blends traditional knowledge with modern science to train the next generation of stewards dedicated to protecting ecosystems and livelihoods.
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Fiji Princess Grounding Near Monuriki Reef: Salvage Team Plans Refloating After Fuel Removal
A seasoned salvage chief has taken command of the recovery effort after a passenger vessel ran aground near Monuriki Island. With fuel removed to curb environmental risk, teams are evaluating damage and safe refloat options, guided by weather and reef conditions.
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Vuda waste-to-energy project faces local backlash as opposition MP demands transparent approvals and safeguards
An opposition MP’s bid to pause a proposed waste-to-energy plant in Vuda sparks questions about approvals and how locals were consulted. With concerns about health, environment, and livelihoods, the debate tests Fiji’s approach to waste, development, and community safeguards.
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Fiji Won’t Fast-Track Vuda-Saweni Waste-to-Energy Plan; EIA and Public Consultations Needed Before Cabinet Decision
Fiji’s government won’t rubber-stamp the controversial Vuda-Saweni waste-to-energy plan. The project is now subject to rigorous due diligence—legal, environmental and community scrutiny—with an ongoing environmental impact assessment and upcoming public consultations before any decision is made.
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Fiji weighs Vuda waste-to-energy plan to boost energy security amid rising fuel prices
Fiji is weighing renewable options to strengthen energy security as global fuel prices rise. A private-sector waste-to-energy project in Vuda is under regulatory review, with environmental assessments posted and upcoming public consultations. Any decision will balance environmental safeguards with community needs before moving forward.
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Fiji urged to embed customary land knowledge in development planning to protect the vanua for future generations
Traditional knowledge meets modern planning as Fiji’s environment chief calls for formal recognition of customary land wisdom in development decisions. The push emphasizes safeguarding the vanua and long‑term stewardship over short‑term gains, as communities gather to shape policies at a landmark workshop.
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Ba Province pushes for time-bound prospecting licences and local mineral ownership
Ba Province’s Ratu Meli Tora is calling for fixed timeframes and tighter controls on prospecting licences to curb environmental disruption on native lands. He also advocates giving landowners a say in mineral ownership on customary land, signaling a push for stronger local input and regulatory change.
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Tabuya Urges Lawyers to Lead on Vuda Waste Crisis, Ensure Community Voices Are Heard
Waste management tensions in Vuda have sparked a bold push for stronger legal advocacy and broader community voice. A government minister has urged lawyers and advocacy groups to step up, hinting at formal opinions and public statements to guide action. With coastal residents raising concerns, the call signals a shift toward more inclusive environmental governance.
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Fiji Urges Lawyers to Ramp Up Environmental Enforcement with New Penalties and Expanded Inspector Powers
Fiji is reshaping how environmental offences are enforced, introducing new powers and penalties to deter harm sooner. Lawyers and prosecutors are being urged to treat breaches with urgency as coastal communities face erosion, pollution and climate-driven displacement. The reform hints at swifter, administrative remedies designed to protect ecosystems and people.