A team led by the Permanent Secretary for Environment Joshua Wycliffe conducted spot checks at the Labasa market on Tuesday.

The team found that some vendors were still using plastic bags that were less than 50 microns in thickness to carry or transport goods.

A verbal warning was given to these vendors. They were asked to provide the details of the manufacturers and suppliers of these illegal plastics.

Mr Wycliff said they apprehended the illegal plastic shipment from these vendors and advised them not to indulge in these illegal practices.

He said this was a manufacturing defect and they were able to obtain the details on the manufacturers.

“We will contact the manufacturers and alert them on this breach to allow them to rectify these defects and we will continue to check on their progress,” he said.

He said they would take action if the manufacturers or suppliers continue to produce the illegal product.

Mr Wycliffe said their teams would continue to work with the Labasa Town Council and the market staff to raise awareness of the standard requirements of plastic thickness.

Vendors who are still confused about the requirements should visit the Environment office for clarification.

Vendor

Vegetable seller, Kusum Bi, said this was the first time she was informed of the plastic size requirement.

“It’s a good initiative and step taken by the Ministry of Environment and its staff to create awareness on the rules that apply for plastic usage,” Ms Bi said.

She would use this knowledge to inform other vendors, who were still unaware of the requirement.

Mr Wycliffe said the chemicals and the polymers that make up the plastic were harmful and non-beneficial to the ecosystem and its inhabitants.

Mr Wycliffe visited the Labasa market after the conclusion of the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) clinic.

Feedback:  sampras.anand@fijisun.com.fj