BY JOY OFASIA
West Guadalcanal MP and Chairperson of the Environment and Conservation Committee, Hon. Mary D. Garu, has called for greater attention to waste management and recycling as part of efforts to protect the environment in Solomon Islands.
Speaking in Parliament during her reply to the Speech from the Throne, Hon. Garu stressed the importance of environmental protection and said environmental issues are closely linked to the country’s development.
“As Chairperson for the Environment and Conservation Committee, I rise to formally reflect specifically to the segment of the Speech from the Throne concerning environmental stewardship and climate resilience,” she said.
Garu said environmental protection is particularly important because many of the issues discussed in Parliament, including mining and economic development, ultimately have an impact on the environment.
She said waste management is one area that requires greater attention, particularly as waste continues to accumulate and communities face challenges in managing rubbish.
Garu acknowledged the Government’s vision for transitioning towards a circular economy, but said the vision must be supported by practical measures.
“I acknowledge the Government’s vision for transitioning towards a circular economy. Yet, a vision without a roadmap is insufficient,” she said.
“The absence of regulatory frameworks, economic incentives, and established local recycling infrastructure leaves industry, communities and others dependent on single-use materials.”
Garu also called for investment in local recycling infrastructure and stronger waste management systems, saying there is a need to ensure that rubbish has an appropriate place to go.
She further highlighted the potential for waste management to create green jobs, including through better management of household, kitchen and garden waste and the use of composting.
As Chairperson of the Environment and Conservation Committee, Garu said environmental commitments must be translated into practical and enforceable measures.
Her comments highlight the need for Government, communities and the private sector to work together to improve waste management, strengthen recycling systems and promote sustainable practices across Solomon Islands.
