More than 1000 kilograms of rubbish has been pulled from the Trashboom in Vatuwaqa — plastic bottles, food wrappers, household waste, plastic bags and, alarmingly, used syringes.
Minister for Environment and Climate Change Hon. Lynda Tabuya said the rubbish tells its own story.
“The creek is not your rubbish bin. More than 1000 kilos of rubbish did not get there by itself. People put it there.”
Her message is directed to every community and household living along the creek and its waterways.
“What you throw into the drain or creek upstream becomes somebody else’s problem downstream. Eventually, it reaches our rivers and our ocean.”
“Government can clean this creek today, but if people dump rubbish again tomorrow, we are back to square one.”
The Minister said the discovery of used syringes was particularly concerning.
“When you throw a used needle into a creek, you are putting the person who has to clean up after you at risk. That is unacceptable.”
From 1 September, the fixed penalty for littering has increased to $200.
“The warning period is over. The fine is now $200. If you litter, be prepared to pay.”
The Ministry thanked Trashboom Pacific and the community members who helped with the three-day clearing operation.
“The Trashboom is doing its job. Government is doing its job. Now every household along this creek must do its part.”
“Bin your rubbish. Don’t dump it. Keep our drains, creeks, rivers and ocean clean.”