The Environment and Conservation Division (ECD) is investigating the use of less than 1.5L plastic water bottles at the recent Miss Pacific Islands Pageant (MPIP), despite a ban under the Environment Single Use Plastic Ban Regulation 2023. The banned bottles were distributed to VIP guests, prompting public concern and questions about the violation.
ECD Director Josef Hurutarau confirmed that the Joint Enforcement Team, alongside police, has launched an investigation to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the breach. Section 4 of the regulation prohibits the importation, manufacture, distribution, and sale of such plastic bottles, with penalties including fines and imprisonment for individuals and corporations.
Honiara City Council (HCC) has backed the investigation, with Mayor Edwin Siapu emphasizing the need for accountability. He stated that the public witnessed the use of banned bottles, and those responsible must face consequences.
The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management, and Meteorology, in collaboration with police, HCC, and other partners, is working to ensure accountability and uphold the plastic ban.
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-MECDM Press
