The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment [M.N.R.E.] has expressed concern at the increase in the illegal dumping of rubbish in public areas.

The rise in the illegal practice has led to the Ministry issuing a warning against littering in public areas.

“For those who are using these public areas including the public bus terminals to prioritise the freshness of our environment,” states the M.N.R.E. in a public notice.

“The same goes for those living in the vicinity of these areas as shown in the photos.

“Let us cooperate. Use bigger rice bags to throw the rubbish at if you [place them in] plastic bags so the rubbish won’t fall out causing an unpleasant scenery on the roadsides.”

The notice then makes specific reference to rubbish bins, which are unable to hold any more rubbish, leading to people leaving their trash bags on top of the bin. 

The rubbish bins have been sighted in the Vaitele area along the main road.

It is not the first time for the M.N.R.E. to issue public notices warning people against such irresponsible behaviour, and have warned that penalties are in place for those who continue with the illegal activity.

“You will be penalised under the law if you’re found [doing this],” stated the M.N.R.E. notice.

While there are private contractors charged with the responsibility to collect the rubbish, staff from the Ministry have been sighted recently clearing rubbish left unattended.

In April this year the Ministry issued a separate warning against the burning of household trash in the backyard, which is illegal in Samoa as it emits harmful gases.

The M.N.R.E. warned in a statement signed by C.E.O. Ulu Bismarck Crawley that these gas emissions are both harmful to the environment and pose unacceptable risks to the health of the public, especially at a time when the nation is taking extra precautionary measures against COVID-19.

He pleaded for cooperation  to help combat and protect Samoa from harm during these unprecedented times.

“We urge the public to report to us if you see anyone burning these rubbish and the Ministry will oversee what has been advised for the general safety of our people,” he said.

“Please let us all work together for the safety of our country while we’re under the protections from the COVID-19.”