Upon visiting Towns in Fiji, I'm told that our landfills have reached their capacity and it's about time that we need to come up with new ways, new ideas and innovative ways of managing our garbage.
This was highlighted by the Minister for Housing and Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa after handing over 2 new Isuzu brand garbage trucks to the Nausori, Savusavu and Tavua Town Council, costing $870,000.
While acknowledging the dedication done by the Municipal Councils that have been providing solid waste collection services around the Country, the Minister says with over 200,000 tonnes of solid waste generated annually in Fiji, operations of landfills demand significant effort and reserves.
He says rubbish landfills pose health hazards and have become a risk to those living nearby the rubbish dumps.
He adds that by embracing an integrated solid waste management approach, incorporating waste reduction, composting, recycling, reusing and exporting waste to value, and waste-to-energy options, we can divert or eliminate waste going to these landfills.
The Minister says it's a challenge for everyone and the Ministry to explore how best we can manage the refusal of the garbage separation from our municipality.
He says working together as a unit is something Fiji needs, and also engaging stakeholders will ensure the country have a very effective management strategy.
