The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change is currently revising its waste and recycling regulations to implement a structured penalty system that varies according to the type of waste and its environmental impact. Dr. Sivendra Michael, the ministry’s permanent secretary, confirmed that the amendments will address waste disposal and recycling protocols, including the management of plastics imported into the country.
The proposed regulations aim to categorize waste and establish fines based on the level of environmental and chemical risks that different types of waste present. Dr. Michael emphasized the importance of differentiating the fines according to the severity of the waste’s hazard, from highly toxic materials to less harmful categories such as green waste and white goods.
The review process has already been through two rounds of national consultations, with plans to engage further with communities in the Central Division and the outer islands. Dr. Michael outlined the consultation efforts already completed in the northern and western regions of Fiji, indicating an intention to include stakeholders from all areas, particularly those facing unique challenges.
Following the consultations, recommendations for these amendments will be forwarded to the Solicitor-General’s Office for drafting, after which they will be presented to the Cabinet for approval. It’s noteworthy that these new regulations will take effect once they have been sanctioned by the Cabinet, as they do not require parliamentary approval.
Additionally, Dr. Michael pointed out the absence of regulations under the Litter Act of 2008, although he mentioned that a draft focusing on littering, waste disposal, and recycling has now been finalized. This step is seen as a proactive move towards better environmental management in Fiji and reflects the Ministry’s commitment to enhancing waste management practices and protecting the environment.