The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change is carrying out an investigation with authorities and hoteliers in Taveuni and Qamea after being alerted to waste found floating near Qamea Island.
The Ministry says since being alerted about the matter on Thursday, they are treating it with utmost seriousness as it works to determine the source of the garbage bags seen in recent social media footage.
They say the incident, which came to public attention after reports of waste floating near Qamea Island, has highlighted the importance of responsible waste management and the need for continued vigilance to protect Fiji’s marine environment.
They say a joint inspection will be carried out in Taveuni and Qamea over the weekend and into early next week.
The Ministry says officials will meet with the community members who retrieved the litter to support the investigation.
They have reaffirmed that all facilities must comply with strict waste management rules under the Environment Management Act 2005.
The Ministry says they remain fully committed to uncovering the facts and will take decisive action once investigations are complete.
While speaking from COP30 in Belém, Brazil, Minister for Environment and Climate Change Mosese Bulitavu has strongly condemned the reckless dumping of waste, warning that such behaviour endangers both communities and Fiji’s marine environment.
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