Tourism not trash: Vuda residents raise billboard against incinerator

Residents of the Vuda–Saweni corridor erected a billboard on Saturday opposing the proposed waste-to-energy (WtE) incinerator, drawing visible support from passing motorists.

The move comes amid ongoing debate over the proposed development, with community members raising concerns about potential environmental and health impacts.

The sign was funded and produced through a community effort. It was donated by Peter and Belinda Guyot of Pacific Island Art, designed by a local resident, and installed by Richard of Superb Advertising & Signs, who led site clearing and erection.

The project had the support of Tokatoka Wadigi and its leader, Apimeleki Nasalo, who approved the use of the site.

As the billboard was installed, a supporter held a “toot to show your support” sign. Drivers responded by sounding their horns.

“We know the community is behind us,” a team member said. “You can hear it. It matters to them just as much as it matters to us.”

Organisers say the billboard reflects community opposition to the project and a shared effort to protect the area.

Villagers are planning a gathering, not a march, after permission was denied for an Easter event.

Background:
The proposed incinerator is a private-sector project led by Australian investor Ian Malouf through a joint venture, aimed at turning waste into energy to ease landfill pressure, but it remains under Government assessment amid ongoing environmental and community concerns.