Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka has called for increased accountability from the tourism sector regarding waste management, underscoring the importance of a clean environment for Fiji’s attractiveness and sustainability. Speaking at the Pacific Recycling Foundation’s VAKA Forum, Mr. Gavoka addressed the substantial waste generated by the tourism industry and the urgent challenges posed by limited landfill space for local communities.
He remarked that Fiji sets itself apart from other competitive destinations such as Thailand, Vietnam, and Bali by maintaining its clean oceans and untouched natural landscapes. Highlighting the positive feedback from surfers at Cloudbreak, he pointed out that tourists are willing to pay a premium when they notice a commitment to environmental care and quality.
The VAKA Forum, which revolves around the themes of Voices, Alliances, Knowledge, and Action, aims to unite various stakeholders, including the government, industry leaders, recyclers, academics, and civil society, in search of effective waste management solutions. Gavoka explained the forum’s goal: to develop the TANOA agreements, which will support ongoing sustainability initiatives in tourism and provide a structured approach to waste management.
He expressed gratitude to the Pacific Recycling Foundation, tourism operators, and grassroots recyclers and urged the entire sector to translate discussions into tangible actions that will safeguard the environment for future generations. This call to action reflects a proactive stance toward ensuring Fiji remains a pristine and welcoming destination for visitors while promoting sustainable practices within the industry.
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