BY JOY OFASIA
Plastic pollution is not just a problem for the environment — it’s a growing danger to people’s health, food, and future. That was the message shared by the Supervising Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment Karl Kuper during a special event at the Multipurpose Futsal Hall yesterday.
The event marked three global celebrations: World Environment Day, World Oceans Day, and Coral Triangle Day 2025.
The Supervising Permanent Secretary said that plastic waste is harming oceans and wildlife, while also adding to major global problems like climate change and biodiversity loss.
“Every year, 11 million tons of plastic leak into rivers and oceans around the world,” he said. “In the Solomon Islands, we see this problem growing, especially in towns and even reaching our villages.”
World Environment Day is celebrated every year on June 5 to raise awareness and inspire action to protect the planet.
He called on everyone to make simple but powerful changes in their daily lives by following the five Rs: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rethink.
The ministry is continuing to enforce the ban on single-use plastics and plans to work closely with provinces, businesses, and community groups to fight plastic pollution together.
“I urge everyone to support this campaign,” the Supervising Permanent Secretary said. “With awareness, innovation, and teamwork, we can protect both our cities and our natural environment.”
