Schools and students in the Northern Division are being encouraged to take the lead in protecting the environment through better waste management practices.

The call was made as Minister for Environment and Climate Change Lynda Tabuya launched the School Waste Management Initiative during commemorations for World Cleanup Day and World Ozone Day at Holy Family Secondary School in Labasa.

The initiative encourages students to separate recyclable, organic and general waste, while also promoting composting and the reuse of materials.

Tabuya told students that protecting the environment does not always require major initiatives, but can begin with simple actions at school and at home.

“To protect our environment, we don’t need big actions. You just need the will to do it,” she said.

The Minister also announced the National Reels Competition 2026, which encourages students to use social media creatively to promote environmental awareness and inspire others to take action.

As part of her visit to the Northern Division, Tabuya also toured Pinto Industries Limited to observe its recycling operations.

Discussions focused on improving the collection, disposal and recycling of polyethylene terephthalate, or PET, waste in the North.

Tabuya acknowledged the company’s contribution towards recycling PET and other recyclable materials in the division.

Meanwhile, the Government has increased the spot fine for littering from $40 to $200, as part of efforts to discourage improper waste disposal and promote greater responsibility for protecting Fiji’s environment.