Residents and environmental advocates in Lautoka are expected to benefit from cleaner waterways following the installation of a new Trashboom at Musuniwai Creek, a site identified as a pollution hotspot.

The floating barrier, developed by Trashboom Pacific, is designed to capture plastic and other waste before it is carried into the ocean, helping to protect marine life, improve water quality and reduce the impact of pollution on surrounding communities.

Environmental Data Analyst Bernadette Underwood said Musuniwai Creek was selected due to the volume of waste entering the waterway. While the Trashboom can intercept rubbish before it reaches the sea, she stressed that lasting change depends on preventing waste from entering rivers in the first place.

She encouraged communities to play an active role in keeping waterways clean by avoiding illegal dumping and adopting responsible waste disposal practices.

The initiative is being led by Trashboom Pacific, a team of young local scientists working to develop practical solutions to Fiji’s growing waste problem.

Speaking at the launch, Minister for Information, Environment and Climate Change Hon. Lynda Tabuya said rubbish entering rivers can block waterways, threaten public health and damage marine ecosystems, highlighting the importance of efforts that prevent waste from reaching the ocean.

The installation forms part of broader efforts to reduce pollution, protect coastal environments and create cleaner waterways for future generations.