BY TONY IROGA
Our coastal environments are natural assets that support livelihoods throughout the country.
Karl Kuper, Deputy Secretary Corporate for the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM) made the above statement when he delivered the keynote address at a recent launch of a major week-long environmental clean-up campaign at Rove Children’s Park in Honiara.
He said coastal environments contribute to tourism, recreation, culture, tradition, and many other aspects of our daily lives.
The campaign, which coincided with the observance of World Environment Day 2026, Coral Triangle Day and World Ocean Day, brought together civil society organisations, community members and students from Mbokona, Tamlan and White School in a united effort to restore the capital’s coastal environment.
Kuper highlighted that Solomon Islands’ beaches and marine ecosystems are valuable national assets that not only sustain livelihoods but also support tourism, recreation, cultural practices and traditional activities throughout the country.
“I would like to remind us to sustain what sustains us, to protect what protects us.
“Environmental stewardship is not just the business of government. It is the responsibility of communities, individuals, businesses and every citizen,” he said.
He stressed that environmental protection cannot be left solely to government agencies and calls for greater public participation in preserving the country’s natural resources.
According to Kuper, the rubbish washing onto Honiara’s shores is a visible reminder of how waste is being managed inland and highlights the urgent need for better waste management practices.
The clean-up operation, supported by the Honiara City Council (HCC) and sponsored by The Nature Conservancy (TNC), will target heavily littered beaches and public recreational areas throughout the capital over the coming week.
Kuper also commended the students and young people who participated in the clean-up campaign, describing them as future leaders in environmental conservation.
“To all our young people, you are key partners in building a sustainable future.
“Your participation today is greatly appreciated. You have demonstrated leadership at a young age and shown a strong commitment to environmental stewardship,” he said.
He encourages all Solomon Islanders to take greater responsibility to protect the environment, saying that collective action is essential to safeguard the country’s coastlines and ensure a cleaner, healthier future for generations to come.
Photo credit: Tony Iroga
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