The newly established Pacific Recyclers Alliance has made notable strides in advancing grassroots recycling initiatives and empowering the Collection Pillars of Recycling, individuals dedicated to gathering recyclables. This progress was highlighted during the 4th Clean Pacific Round Table (CPRT) organized by the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) in Tuvalu.
According to the Pacific Recycling Foundation, which supports grassroots efforts, this achievement is significant for the Clean Pacific Round Table community and the wider grassroots recycling movement.
Amitesh Deo, the founder of the Pacific Recycling Foundation and Secretary of the Pacific Recyclers Alliance, stated that the outcomes from the CPRT include formal recognition of the Pacific Recyclers Alliance’s establishment, bringing together six National Recyclers Associations to enhance waste management and pollution control efforts throughout the Pacific. It also emphasizes the crucial role that Collection Pillars of Recycling play in member countries.
Pacific Island Countries and Territories have been urged to form National Recyclers Associations to broaden membership and representation within the Alliance.
Deo conveyed the organization’s excitement, saying, “Our voices are finally being heard.” He referred to the support indicated in the CPRT outcomes for the Collection Pillars of Recycling as a significant victory for countless individuals involved in collecting recyclables in Fiji and other Pacific nations.
“This acknowledgment validates the dedication and effort of these communities, who are essential to the region’s recycling and waste management strategies.”
Deo noted that the term “Collection Pillars of Recycling,” originally created by a group of women in Vunato, Lautoka, who were previously known as waste pickers, is now gaining recognition in regional policy discussions.
This represents a significant moment as terminology from informal recyclables collectors has reached high-level policy dialogues, highlighting their important role in developing sustainable waste management approaches across the Pacific.
He emphasized that this recognition not only enhances the profile of informal recyclables collectors but also reinforces the foundation for sustainable waste management practices. The Pacific Recyclers Alliance remains dedicated to advocating for CPR and supporting grassroots recycling organizations throughout the region.