The Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) has raised alarms regarding the alarming appearance of used needles and syringes in its recycling initiatives, particularly within community programs and educational settings, as well as during cleanup efforts.
Founder and Chief Executive Amitesh Deo highlighted that this growing issue is becoming alarmingly frequent and poses a serious risk to the health and safety of both recycling employees and the general public.
“It is extremely concerning that needles and syringes, classified as hazardous waste, are being improperly disposed of in recycling bins. Such irresponsible actions significantly endanger our workers, who could come into contact with potentially contaminated materials,” he stated.
Deo noted that findings of these hazardous items in PRF’s recycling programs, alongside similar discoveries during a recent cleanup event in Koronivia, are particularly distressing.
“As a grassroots organization, we are becoming increasingly aware of the severity of Fiji’s drug crisis within different communities we serve, along with a disturbing rise in the number of needles and syringes found in our recycling initiatives and during community cleanups,” Deo remarked.
He emphasized the urgent need for referral pathways and the establishment of specialized rehabilitation facilities to address the ongoing drug crisis effectively.
PRF stresses that all medical waste, including needles and syringes, must be disposed of through secure and appropriate channels, as recycling programs lack the capability to handle such hazardous materials. The presence of these items in recycling streams presents serious dangers, including the risk of physical injuries and the potential spread of disease.
“We urge all sectors to be responsible and ensure the proper disposal of hazardous waste,” Deo added. The Foundation calls for heightened vigilance and collaboration across all sectors to mitigate risks associated with the improper disposal of hazardous materials.
“We must not underestimate the potential dangers associated with these actions. The safety of our workers and the overall success of our recycling programs rely on immediate action and accountability,” Deo concluded.