Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Mosese Bulitavu, while focusing on building floodgates and seawalls, is also looking into drainage issues, especially in Nadi. He revealed this during the National Capacity Building for Plastic Pollution in the Pacific Island Countries Workshop at Novotel Hotel in Nadi yesterday. During an interview with this masthead, he said his ministry had big plans this year. “We have got big plans in the ministry, especially on climate change with various programmes we have been working on with our development partners,” Mr Bulitavu said. “We have an adaptation fund that currently funds sea walls, and nature-based relocations for those affected by climate change. “We are working on building good floodgates, especially on saltwater intrusion into our farms. “These are some of the issues that we see as priority while there are issues that we are working on with the local government in terms of drainage in places like Nadi. “The areas in Nadi are vulnerable to floods and flash floods. We are at how we can work with the public works ministry; getting more resilience and infrastructure in place as some are ageing.” Mr Bulitavu said they launched the National Anti-Litter Campaign two weeks ago; this is aimed at reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainable practices. “The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change is leading efforts to combat plastic pollution,” he said. “The (2025-2029) National Development Plan’s vision is to position Fiji as a global sustainability leader. “This includes strengthening legislation, incentivising sustainable practices, fostering engagement, and exploring non-plastic substitutes.” “However, we recognise that these efforts must be complemented by regional collaboration and by building a dividend of skills. “We must empower ourselves to be architects of our owm sustainable futures,” Mr Bulitavu added. Feedback: mereleki.nai@fijisun.com.fj