Ramada backs efforts for cleaner lagoon
December 5, 2024 9:59 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook
By Charles Hakwa.
Following numerous claims from Erakor villagers about lagoon-side resorts lacking proper sewage systems and contributing to pollution in the lagoon, Ramada Resort General Manager (GM) Ben Smith told the Daily Postthat it is disappointing for people to be so quick to point fingers. He said it is easy to blame the hotels along the lagoon.
Mr. Smith suggested that instead of blaming businesses that have a vested interest in a clean lagoon, which are doing the right thing and have programmes in place to minimise their environmental impact, people should collaborate with those committed to restoring the lagoon’s cleanliness, which was once enjoyed by everyone. He emphasised that maintaining a clean environment is essential for tourism businesses and is increasingly expected by guests.
The GM explained that it would be counterproductive for hotels and resorts to pollute the lagoon. The swimming ban and poor water quality negatively impact hotel operations. He noted that it is difficult to attract guests when they must be informed that lagoon swimming is prohibited due to pollution. Guests often prefer hotels where swimming in the lagoon is allowed.
He said it would be beneficial for the resort to have the lagoon clean and usable. Efforts have been made to resolve the issue of lagoon cleanliness. This concern has been raised repeatedly in meetings with partners. According to Smith, it is widely known that the primary source of the lagoon’s pollution is the hospital, which lacks a sufficient or functioning treatment plant.
The hotel, which has invested heavily in a treatment plant, has a fully operational system. Smith cited independent water testing conducted at the resort site as evidence of their efforts. Without this system, the water at the resort would not be safe for swimming. Testing results, published on the Coastal Watch website, clearly show that pollution begins at Seaside and affects other parts of the lagoon in varying degrees (https://coastalwater.vu/coastal-water-quality-data-base/).
During the lagoon clean-up, a large number of tyres and batteries were salvaged from the lagoon seabed. However, Smith stated that all the resort’s waste is disposed of responsibly, with additional costs incurred for recycling everything that can be recycled. Even old buggy tyres are still stored at the resort. He emphasised that all team members are strictly instructed not to dispose of anything in the lagoon, with termination as the penalty for violations. Additionally, the resort staff collect rubbish that washes up on the shore every morning.
Concerns were raised about chlorinated water from resort pools flowing into the lagoon. Smith clarified that their pool has a large filtration system and is a saltwater pool, which does not require the water to be changed or drained into the lagoon.
He further explained that their wastewater treatment plant was imported and installed during construction, meeting all international standards. Regarding allegations of kitchen wastewater pouring into the lagoon, Smith said that their kitchen wastewater goes through a grease trap that is regularly cleaned by professionals who remove and properly treat the grease. He noted that if large amounts of grease and wastewater were discharged into the lagoon, it would cause an unpleasant smell near the restaurant and deter guests.
The GM said Ramada Resort fully supports any initiative aimed at achieving a cleaner lagoon for everyone’s enjoyment.
