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Introduction
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POLLUTION PROBLEMS IN TI-E SOUTH PACIFIC:
FERTILIZERS, BIOCIDES, WATER zuppLIES AhD TRBAN WASTES
R.J. Morrigon and .}E, Brodie
Institute of Natural Resources
University of the South pacific
P. O. Box 1158, Suva, Fiji
ABSTRACT
The South Pacific region is fortunale in being relatively free of major
pollution problems. However, increasing development ind the fragility of some of
the regional ecosystems tnean that potential dangers exist. Localized problems
with pesticides and herbicides have occurred, Uut at present fertilizer use is
limited and thus does not constitute a major hazard. The principal cause for
concern is Lhe contamination of water zupplies by biocides, human and animal
wastes. These problems are particularly acute in atoll environments having a
limited fresh-water supply.
There is some evidence of dunrping in the South Pacific of aqricultural
chemicals that have been banned in developed countries. Lack of eiperienced
personnel in monitoring the introduction of these chemicals plus inadequate
knowledge of storage methods, disposal problems and safe handling nrethods
constitutes a major problem for many small island communities
Future developnrents in the use of agricultural chemicals and in the disposal
of human and animal wastes need to be carefully monitored if serious pnoblems
are to be avoided. This can only be achieved with the urgent establishment of an
appropriate regional environrnental monitoring programme.
The outsider thinking of the South Pacific visualizes coral sand beaches, palm trees,
cleer water, etc.l the possibility that the area might be polluted is seldom considered.
Fortunately for much of Lhe region this is the case aJ it is relatively pollution free, but this
situation is changing and potential problems do exist.
Development demands of the various countries rnean increased industrial activity,
increased u_s9 of agricultural chemicals, and increased amoun[s of waste products requirinq
disposal. This is particularly important given the fragitity of South pacific ecosystems.
Concern for ecosystems is mainly in terms of their abilitf to sstain and maintain themselves,
end thus provide food, shelter and water for thoge life forms present (and we selfish humans
consider human life particularly in this context). In terms of their ability to sustain human
life' Pecific eccyatems are fragile by the very neture of the region - a large rumber of
small island systems separated by considerable expanses of oceari (except foi papua New
Guinea). In the larger continental countries, if one ecosystem or part of a system is damaged
by either human of natural activities, then others can be called upon to iitt tf,r g"p uitil
recovery has ccurred. TNs "fall-back" option is freqirently not available in man! Facific
countries. It is therefore particularly important thet potential pollution problems be identified
and the necessary steps taken to minimize them.