As 2025 approaches, the Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) is urging collaborative action to build on the achievements of 2024 and to address the obstacles faced in sustainable waste management. Founder Amitesh Deo highlighted the progress made in tackling Fiji’s waste management challenges, noting that while significant advancements were accomplished with the help of various partners, there is still much work to be done.
Deo emphasized the importance of 2025 as a pivotal year for creating enduring change through genuine cooperation across sectors. He stated, “Let this be the year we break barriers and achieve lasting transformation.” The accomplishments of the previous year, while commendable, need to be transformed into effective and sustainable solutions that engage all communities and tackle the root issues of the waste management crisis.
In 2024, PRF made significant gains, such as establishing the Pacific Recyclers Alliance, which enhances regional collaboration to address joint waste management challenges. The organization brought recognition to ‘Collection Pillars of Recycling’, elevating the status and visibility of informal recyclables collectors. Additionally, PRF expanded its initiatives to Fiji’s outer islands, introduced an innovative soft plastics recycling project, and facilitated the transition of CPR to formal employment through the ‘I Recycle’ program.
Deo noted the impressive results of the recycling efforts, stating, “Through our programs and the dedicated work of the CPR, we diverted 4,837 tonnes — nearly five million kilograms — of recyclables from dumpsites and the Naboro landfill in 2024, including many low-value materials.” This success marks a significant move towards effective waste management, driven largely by PRF’s tailored initiatives.
While the organization celebrates these achievements, it acknowledges gaps that still exist, particularly in underprivileged areas. Deo pointed out that the real challenge for 2025 lies in expanding these efforts and moving past outdated waste management practices to establish inclusive and sustainable solutions.
He urged the government to embrace bold, transformative actions in waste management, emphasizing the necessity for policymakers to focus on long-term partnerships with PRF rather than opting for short-term solutions. “This is not the time for half-measures – the waste management crisis demands decisive action,” he remarked.
Deo also called upon businesses to shift their approach beyond shallow sustainability efforts, urging them to invest in long-term, substantive solutions. He stressed that corporate responsibility involves not just fulfilling obligations but also ensuring a sustainable future for everyone, urging businesses to be accountable for their environmental impacts and actively participate in promoting systemic change.
This call for action is a hopeful step forward as both communities and businesses are encouraged to come together, laying the groundwork for a sustainable future. 2025 can be a defining year if shared responsibilities and strategic partnerships are prioritized, creating momentum for lasting change in waste management practices.
Overall, this initiative shines a light on the importance of community involvement and responsible practices in addressing environmental issues, which bodes well for Fiji’s ecological future.
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