Students at Suva Grammar School are being urged to take responsibility for keeping their school and environment clean as part of efforts to address growing waste management issues in the country.
Minister for Local Government Maciu Nalumisa highlighted this during the launch of School Waste Management Initiative at Suva Grammar School, where concerns were raised about poor environmental conditions, including littering within school compounds.
Under the initiative the schools received four pitchforks, four waste bins and 5 compost bins.
Nalumisa says students are custodians of their school, community and the environment, and must play their part in protecting it for future generations.
He says the initiative is part of a broader national strategy to tackle waste management as landfills across the country are reaching capacity.
The Minister stresses that the “3Rs” — Reduce, Reuse and Recycle — must be adopted to minimise waste.
Nalumisa adds that a recycling programme is being piloted in schools to encourage better waste management practices.
Students and members of the public are also encouraged to return plastic bottles and aluminium cans, with a small payment offered as an incentive.
He says recycling should also be seen as a potential source of income, not just a way to manage waste.
Meanwhile, Minister for Environment Lynda Tabuya has called on students to become “champions of change” in protecting Fiji’s environment.
Tabuya says young people play a critical role in shaping a cleaner future and encouraged them to take responsibility at school, at home and in their communities.
She says the initiative includes practical measures such as waste separation and the “Return and Earn” scheme, which allows students and schools to earn money through recycling.
Tabuya also highlighted the importance of maintaining cleanliness during major events such as the Coca-Cola Games, urging students to lead by example.
She warns that by 2030, there could be more plastic in the ocean than fish if urgent action is not taken.
The programme will also expand to include composting, allowing schools to convert food waste into fertiliser, with training to be provided by the Department of Environment.
Tabuya adds that littering fines have increased from $40 to $200 as part of stricter enforcement measures.
She says small actions can lead to big changes and is urging students to help build a cleaner and more sustainable Fiji.
