The Ministry of Environment is advising Fijians to refrain from contributing to environmental pollution.

Environment Minister Dr. Mahendra Reddy says they will support investment, growth, and development but not at the expenses of natural resources.

Dr. Reddy says this is being done to ensure that future generations have the opportunity to enjoy the same benefits that we currently have.

“There is a prevailing culture of disposing of waste in waterways, alongside roads, near river banks, along with the coast and in mangroves and natural forests. This culture needs to be changed or we risk losing our natural capital and will deprive both current as well as future generations from having access to it.”

Dr. Reddy says when discarded carelessly, litter usually ends up in rivers and creeks causing flash flooding and is a threat to the public.

He adds all stakeholders need to work together in order to protect our environment.