Let’s address the elephant in the room, shall we!

The fire at the Vunato Dump Site in Lautoka and the potential threat to nearby residents of the mounting open landfill in Namara, Labasa.

Both pose a serious public health threat.

What would it take for authorities to hit the ground running and take matters seriously to address this health concern?

The fire at the Sugar City’s dump site that began on Monday does not seem to die any time soon!

It has led to certain businesses like Tanoa Waterfront Hotel to enforce wearing masks for its employees.

On the North side of the compass, residents living nearby dread waking up in the morning to be greeted by pests such as flies and rats in their homes.

Google tells us that when a landfill fire burns, it releases harmful gases and particles into the air, including carbon monoxide, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Additionally, open landfill areas are susceptible to the incubation and multiplication of flies, mosquitoes, rodents, and cockroaches; as a result, it becomes a source of pollution and breeding of such insects are common around the landfill, which consequences in spreading of vector-borne diseases.

If the above isn’t enough, what is?

People’s lives are at risk, businesses are at risk of closing temporarily.

This issue is not a matter of exaggeration, it’s a matter of fact and we must act now to prevent underlying health concerns of residents nearby.

The improper disposal of hazardous materials in dumpsites can lead to soil and groundwater contamination, endangering public health.

Exposure to these hazardous substances can cause various health issues, including respiratory ailments, skin diseases, gastrointestinal problems, and long-term chronic illnesses.

Proper waste management is essential for maintaining environmental sustainability and public health.

It involves a systematic approach to reduce, reuse, recycle, and responsibly dispose of waste materials.

Implementing effective waste management practices includes segregation of waste at the source, promoting recycling and composting, and adopting advanced waste treatment technologies.

Encouraging public awareness and education about waste reduction and recycling is vital.

Additionally, governments and organisations should establish comprehensive waste management policies and regulations, ensuring proper collection, transportation, and treatment of waste.

By prioritising waste reduction, recycling, and safe disposal methods, we can minimise environmental pollution, conserve resources, and protect human health for a cleaner and healthier future.

Feedback: ranobab@fijisun.com.fj