Portion Pak, a manufacturer and distributor of hotel room amenities based in Nadi, is set to launch its new Wananavu Refillable Silicone Water Bottles in July. This innovative product aligns with the growing demand for sustainable alternatives to single-use plastic bottles, particularly within the hospitality sector.
General manager for sales and marketing, James (Jimi) Kennedy-Grant, shared that various hotels have expressed keen interest in adopting the refillable bottles as part of their environmental initiatives. “When guests check in, these bottles will be presented as gifts from the resort, which not only helps to reduce plastic waste but also enhances the guest experience,” he explained during his remarks at the Fiji Tourism Exchange (FTE) 2025, a recent event held at the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort.
The initiative comes in response to staggering numbers illustrating the environmental impact of plastic waste. For instance, last year, Portion Pak utilized around 210,000 single-use plastic bottles, which were replaced daily, contributing significantly to waste. In contrast, the new model will allow families to receive different colored refillable bottles filled with water upon check-in, along with a guide to local refill stations.
Mr. Kennedy-Grant also revealed that a laser machine will be available for personalizing the refillable bottles with guests’ names, adding a unique touch. In addition to the silicone bottles, Portion Pak produces compostable coffee cups and lids that meet Australian and European standards, further emphasizing their commitment to sustainability. For every sale of these cups, five percent is donated to the Rise Beyond the Reef initiative, which has raised over $8,000 in recent quarters, underscoring the intersection of sustainability and community support.
This launch reflects a broader trend within Fiji’s tourism industry, where initiatives like Portion Pak’s are gaining momentum. Similar efforts have been seen with the ‘Lase Vou’ program recently introduced in collaboration with the Pacific Recycling Foundation, focused on enabling the reuse and recycling of empty beverage containers. According to industry leaders, such partnerships are vital for cultivating environmentally friendly practices that protect Fiji’s beautiful landscapes while meeting consumer expectations for sustainability.
The positive reception and proactive measures taken by hotels signal a hopeful future for sustainable tourism in Fiji. As more organizations commit to reducing their plastic footprints, it sets a precedent for other regions to follow, fostering a shared responsibility toward preserving the environment while enhancing guest experiences.
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