Suva, Fiji, South Pacific Ocean

There is little doubt that rapid population growth and urbanisation has put increasing environmental pressure on Suva City and the Suva region in general. Environmental degradation is largely due to domestic waste and sewage disposal dumped in mangrove areas, and land reclamation from mangrove forests. Industries in the area do dump their waste directly into coastal waters as well. Little or no regard has been paid to the importance of mangroves in the marine food chain or the problem of leaching of pollutants during periods of high rainfall.

A cleared mangrove stand in Fiji. Photo courtesy of J. Niukula & L. Ovasisi.

Water pollution around Suva is dire and very worrying in terms of health for local populations and environmental health of remaining mangrove stands. Pollution is obviously effecting the biology in the area, fish caught off Suva harbour sometimes have an oily, kerosene flavour, while marine life in the harbour has been degraded. Shellfish feed by filtering the water they live in. Those found in coastal areas of Suva absorb sewerage waste and the population of Suva has been advised not to eat the local shellfish because of the danger of hepatitis. Despite that problem, Suva harbour and Laucala Bay remain a major source of food for low-income residents.

Building on reclaimed mangrove forest. Photo courtesy of J. Niukula & L. Ovasisi.

For a healthy community and healthy mangroves the level of pollution around Suva needs to be curbed. Reserves for the remaining mangroves need to be established so they can be protected. Healthy mangroves can be a valuable resource and provide fuel and food if managed sustainably.