The Collection Pillars of Recycling (CPR) have gained recognition in regional discussions, according to Amitesh Deo, founder of the Pacific Recycling Foundation and secretary of the Pacific Recyclers Alliance. CPR denotes individuals engaged in the collection of recyclable materials.
Deo revealed that the fourth Clean Pacific Round Table (CPRT), organized by the South Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) in Tuvalu, highlighted key achievements and advancements in grassroots recycling initiatives and the empowerment of Collection Pillars of Recycling.
Key outcomes from the CPRT included the formal establishment of the Pacific Recyclers Alliance, which brings together six national recyclers associations to streamline waste management and pollution control efforts throughout the Pacific region.
Deo emphasized that these outcomes underscore the significant contribution of the Collection Pillars of Recycling in member states and encourage Pacific island nations to form national recyclers associations, thereby enhancing membership and representation within the Pacific Recyclers Alliance.
Expressing excitement about the alliance’s progress, Deo stated, “Our voices are finally being heard. The support for the role of the Collection Pillars of Recycling in the CPRT outcomes is a major achievement for the thousands involved in recycling collection across Fiji and other Pacific countries.”
He also noted that the term “Collection Pillars of Recycling” was initially introduced by a group of women in Vunato, Lautoka, who were formerly known as waste pickers. This significant shift reflects how a term created by informal recyclable collectors has now reached high-level policy discussions, highlighting their vital role in developing sustainable waste management practices throughout the Pacific.