In a significant effort toward a sustainable future, the Pacific Recycling Foundation and Waste Recyclers Fiji Limited, alongside Paradise Beverages Limited and Tourism Fiji, launched the ‘Lase Vou’ program at the Fiji Tourism Recycling Forum in Nadi today.
This initiative is focused on promoting the reuse and recycling of empty PBL Beer and Tribe bottles specifically within Fiji’s vibrant tourism sector. With increasing concerns about glass bottles piling up in landfills, especially those from PBL, this program presents an innovative solution for their collection and recycling.
The ‘Lase Vou’ program serves as a rallying call for the tourism industry to take charge in creating a cleaner and more sustainable Fiji. Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi has become the first hotel to adopt this program, showcasing its dedication to sustainability and encouraging other resorts and hotels in the region to follow suit.
Amitesh Deo, founder of the Pacific Recycling Foundation, expressed optimism about the program’s potential impact. He noted, “The ‘Lase Vou’ program aims to engage hotels and resorts in joint efforts to minimize waste, support the circular economy, and ensure efficient collection and recycling of empty PBL bottles.”
Deo emphasized the program’s goal to forge a strong network within the tourism sector, facilitating the sharing and implementation of best practices in waste management, ultimately reducing the environmental impact of these establishments. He highlighted that collaboration can create a sustainability model that not only benefits the environment but also supports the communities vital to this sector.
Deo also extended his gratitude to Paradise Beverages Limited and Tourism Fiji for their essential contributions in launching the ‘Lase Vou’ program.
Mike Spencer, General Manager of Paradise Beverages, underscored the program’s significance in line with the company’s sustainability mission. He stated, “Sustainability is not just a goal but a responsibility. The ‘Lase Vou’ program aligns perfectly with our commitment to reducing our environmental impact and promoting a circular economy.”
Spencer noted that Paradise Beverages has achieved a 92% collection rate for large bottles this year and is eager to improve the collection rates for smaller bottles through this partnership, ensuring increased recovery and reuse.
He added, “We are proud to participate in an initiative that not only tackles waste management challenges but also aids in preserving Fiji’s natural beauty, which is crucial to our tourism industry.”
Leigh Howard, Chief Operations Officer of Tourism Fiji, supported these views, highlighting the vital role their collaboration with the Pacific Recycling Foundation and other partners plays in advancing sustainability efforts.
Narend Kumar, Area General Manager of Tanoa Hotel, expressed enthusiasm for the ‘Lase Vou’ initiative, stating, “For Tanoa International Hotel, this signifies more than just an upgrade in service; it reflects a commitment to minimizing our environmental footprint while providing an outstanding guest experience.”