As we step into 2025, the Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) is urging for collaborative efforts to advance the achievements of 2024 and tackle the persistent obstacles in sustainable waste management. Amitesh Deo, the founder of the Foundation, stressed that while progress has been made in addressing Fiji’s waste management issues, the journey is ongoing.
Deo called upon all sectors to unite for true transformation this year. “Let this be the year we break barriers and achieve lasting transformation,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of converting past successes into sustainable solutions that involve every community and address the root causes of the waste management crisis.
In 2024, PRF reached significant milestones, including the creation of the Pacific Recyclers Alliance, which promotes regional collaboration to confront collective waste challenges. A notable achievement was the recognition of ‘Collection Pillars of Recycling’ in regional literature, which has granted dignity and visibility to informal recyclables collectors.
The Foundation has also made notable advancements in extending recycling efforts to Fiji’s outer islands, launching an innovative program for soft plastics, and aiding the transition of Community Participation Representatives (CPR) into formal employment through the ‘I Recycle’ initiative. This program has seen engagement from over 20 organizations and communities, indicating growing acceptance and support.
In total, combined efforts with Waste Recyclers Fiji Limited have successfully diverted nearly 4,837 tonnes of recyclables, equivalent to almost 5 million kilograms, from landfills. Deo highlighted the importance of these outcomes as a significant shift towards better waste management practices.
Despite these achievements, Deo underscored that the work has only begun, with an emphasis on addressing gaps in underserved areas. He called on the government to implement genuine, long-term solutions rather than temporary fixes, conveying the urgency of addressing the waste management crisis with decisive measures.
In his appeal to businesses, Deo urged them to look beyond superficial sustainability efforts and invest in significant, responsible actions that foster genuine corporate accountability and systemic change.
In summary, the PRF’s efforts illustrate a promising foundation for sustainable waste management in Fiji, highlighting that with continued collaboration and commitment, 2025 could be a transformative year for the region’s environmental practices. This call to action provides hope for a future where all stakeholders play a role in creating lasting change.
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