Naitasiri lawyer urges youths to join environmental clean-up programmes

A young lawyer from Naitasiri Province is urging more youths to join community-based environmental programmes.

Ratu Anare Davetanivalu says, waste management initiatives can help steer young people away from drugs while strengthening civic responsibility.

During a waste awareness outreach under the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change’s Pacific Ocean Litter Project (POLP) volunteer programme in Vanuakula Village, Ratu Anare said community attitudes toward rubbish disposal remain one of the biggest challenges facing environmental advocates.

“We can see it just by driving past our roads. The specks of white and coloured rubbish scattered everywhere,” he said.

“Many communities still do not treat waste management as a serious issue.”

Ratu Anare Davetanivalu (left) with a colleague during the Pacific Ocean Litter Project volunteer programme in Vanuakula Village, Naitasiri on May 12, 2026.

Photo: Asenaca Ratu

Ratu Anare said his journey with POLP began during his undergraduate years at university when he encountered volunteers sorting rubbish at the marine campus in Laucala Bay.

“What started as curiosity opened doors I never imagined,” he said. “I’ve worked in communities from Naqali to Lami, and I’ve realised that waste collectors and volunteers play an essential role in keeping society functioning.”

Recent government efforts to strengthen litter enforcement were praised and this includes the increase in littering fines from $40 to $200.

It was described as a proactive step toward changing public behaviour.

The volunteer also linked growing waste problems with wider social issues, including drug use among youths.

He said volunteers frequently encounter drug equipment while conducting clean-up campaigns in communities.

“I often come across bottles modified for marijuana use,” Ratu Anare said. “That tells us there are deeper social problems that need attention.”

Involving youths in organisations such as POLP can provide a sense of purpose, civic pride and community belonging.

Many young people become vulnerable to drugs because of limited opportunities and lack of positive engagement.

He called on government agencies and communities to create more youth-focused activities, particularly in sports and volunteerism.

“Sports and community involvement give youths an outlet and help pull them away from drugs,” he said.

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