Waste from Labasa Town is accumulating on the shores of Mali, as reported by island representative Tema Bui. Ms. Bui noted a marked rise in debris, including plastics and metals, washing up on Mali’s beaches over the last few weeks.
“Our shore was once known for its cleanliness,” she stated, expressing concern over how it has transformed into a dumping ground for improperly discarded waste from Labasa Town.
At a workshop organized by the Wildlife Conservation Society, Ms. Bui highlighted that nearby settlements are treating mangrove swamps as informal trash disposal sites. “This practice exacerbates pollution, as discarded items clog mangrove roots and endanger local wildlife,” she explained.
Joeli Veitayaki, a strategic advisor for Blue Prosperity Fiji, explained that debris can travel far from its origin due to wave action. “While those upstream may not immediately notice the waste, it ultimately flows downstream,” Mr. Veitayaki observed, adding that the trash can accumulate at river mouths and be carried out to sea by the tide, only to be returned to shore by wind and currents.
He strongly criticized public littering, calling it both unnecessary and unacceptable.