PRF calls for authorities to immediately look into severe cases of environmental damage
The Pacific Recycling Foundation is calling on relevant authorities to urgently conduct investigations into a suspected oil spill along the Nasese foreshore, as per a media report on 20th June (FBC) as well as into a separate case regarding suspected sewage discharge in a creek in Nasinu.
The Founder of the PRF, Mr. Amitesh Deo said relevant authorities and agencies should also urgently look into ways to clean the Nasese foreshore as the oil spill is not only harmful to marine life but also hazardous to hundreds of people including children who access the Nasese foreshore on a daily basis for recreational activities.
“We are concerned about the effects of toxic contamination on marine life and those who use the foreshore,” said Mr. Deo.
The PRF Founder further revealed that in a separate case, they also want authorities to look into a case where they suspect sewage has been discharged into a creek at Bykeitou Settlement near Nasole.
He said the discovery was made by the PRF staff who visited the settlement to discuss a possible waste management solution for the community as it currently does not have a proper system for waste disposal, and general waste is being dumped near the creek.
“Our team was told by residents that they had taken the issue regarding sewage discharge and stench to relevant authorities however nothing has been done to date,” said Mr. Deo.
He said these are definitely not isolated cases and there may be many other cases concerning environmental damage.
Mr. Deo said the PRF will continue to advocate for environmental protection and our right to a healthy, clean, and safe environment.
“We have been inundated with messages from the general public who are requesting solutions regarding various waste management and environment-related issues, an area that needs urgent attention,” stated Mr. Deo.
He said while the PRF has been formed to create awareness of recycling and empower individuals involved in informal waste picking, the foundation is expected to take on additional roles following its Strategic Planning Workshop, as an agency that will lobby for environmental protection as well as our right to a clean, healthy and safe environment.
