Fiji’s dependency on landfills has garnered significant attention as the Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) officially launched its inaugural VAKA Forum in Lautoka, aimed at municipalities across the country. This initiative signifies a crucial step towards rethinking waste management practices in Fiji.
Amitesh Deo, the founder of PRF, did not hold back in expressing his concerns, labeling Fiji’s reliance on landfilling as “one of our biggest environmental contradictions.” He highlighted that the nation cannot genuinely advocate for sustainability while the majority of its waste continues to be dumped in landfills. According to Deo, “If Fiji is truly committed to sustainability, we cannot continue to depend on methods that are unsustainable.” He emphasized that landfills pose various environmental threats, including ecosystem damage and methane emissions, while the rising volume of waste generation is quickly diminishing landfill lifespans, costing taxpayers substantial amounts for rehabilitation.
Deo stressed that “every landfill and dumpsite represents both an environmental and economic burden,” underscoring that only materials beyond recovery or recycling should find their way to such sites. The VAKA Forum Series, which stands for Voices, Alliances, Knowledge, and Action, is designed to aid Fiji in transitioning from waste dumping to recovery, recycling, and improved transparency in waste management.
Municipal councils were identified as the ideal starting point for this national effort, with Deo describing them as “the heartbeat” of communities where everyday decisions greatly influence waste management outcomes. The series will unfold over the coming months with further forums planned for various stakeholders, including the tourism sector, recyclers, and governmental entities. Other sessions will involve ambassadors, faith organizations, and civil society members, further broadening the dialogue on waste management in Fiji.
The concerns raised during this forum align with a broader discourse regarding Fiji’s waste management challenges. Previous initiatives like the “I Recycle” program have sought to engage communities in better waste practices through education and collaboration with local stakeholders, reflecting a growing awareness of environmental stewardship. As highlighted by Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica, collaboration among businesses, policymakers, and communities is vital for reforming waste management frameworks and empowering waste collectors.
While challenges remain, there is growing optimism that community-driven initiatives and educational efforts can catalyze a shift towards more sustainable waste practices. By involving local citizens and fostering a culture of responsibility around waste management, Fiji has the potential to make significant strides towards an environmentally sustainable future.
Leave a comment