The Fiji Government is ramping up efforts to combat marine pollution by expanding its national trash boom program. The initiative involves installing eight additional trash boom units in critical waterways by early January, particularly focusing on areas prone to litter accumulation such as urban creeks, rivers, and drainage systems that flow into coastal regions.
Officials stress the importance of intercepting waste before it reaches the ocean, as this is vital to reduce the amount of plastic and debris entering Fiji’s marine environment. The program builds on the success of earlier installations at Nabukalou Creek and Bailey Bridge, where the effectiveness of the trash booms in capturing waste upstream has been demonstrated.
The lessons learned from these initial pilot projects are informing improvements in the installation, upkeep, and integration of the booms within broader waste management strategies. This comprehensive approach aims to strengthen Fiji’s long-term initiatives against marine litter, safeguarding its cherished marine ecosystems. The expansion of the program offers hope for a cleaner, healthier environment for both local wildlife and communities that depend on these waterways. Through these proactive steps, Fiji is taking meaningful strides toward sustainability and environmental protection.