The Fiji Government is stepping up efforts to tackle marine litter by expanding its trash boom programme, with eight new installations planned across priority waterways by early January.
The initiative targets high-risk litter pathways, including urban creeks, rivers, and drainage systems, to prevent plastics and debris from entering coastal waters.
The Government says the expansion builds on the success of earlier installations at Nabukalou Creek and Bailey Bridge, with improvements in site placement, maintenance, and integration into wider waste management systems.
They add that the trash booms capture floating waste during both normal and high-rainfall events, with collected materials directed towards proper disposal and recycling.
The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has partnered with Trash Boom Pacific to provide technical support, site assessments, and operational guidance for the new installations.
They explain that site selection is informed by litter hotspot mapping, feasibility studies, and environmental impact assessments, ensuring each location is well suited to local conditions.
They say community engagement remains central to the programme, with clean-up activities around trash boom sites encouraging public participation and promoting behaviour change.
They add that the expanded programme complements Fiji’s broader strategies for waste management, marine protection, and pollution control, reinforcing the country’s commitment to preserving its environment.
