Dr Mahendra Reddy at the Naveicovatu village in Tailevu [Source: Fijian Government]

The Ministry of Environment has reiterated that it will not approve any investment or development that could exploit our environment and resources.

While commissioning the Naveicovatu Vetiver Project yesterday, Minister responsible, Dr Mahendra Reddy says some companies have been given stop notices as a result of destroying natural resources and environment for personal gain.

Dr Reddy says they will also enforce environmental legislation in an effort to protect our environment.

“We will not deprive future generations to derive the same benefit from our natural resources and environment as we have done. While natural resources provide direct benefit to the current generation, the loss of these natural resources will not only deprive the future generation of deriving these same direct benefits, it will also deprive them of the environment whose value may not be measured quantitatively.”

Dr Reddy says they are also working to provide education and awareness on the importance of protecting our environment and natural resources.

The ministry yesterday worked with the Naveicovatu community in controlling river bank erosion along the Naveicovatu River.