In a significant initiative to promote sustainability, the Pacific Recycling Foundation and Waste Recyclers Fiji Limited, in collaboration with Paradise Beverages Limited and Tourism Fiji, unveiled the ‘Lase Vou’ program at the Fiji Tourism Recycling Forum held in Nadi today.
The ‘Lase Vou’ program is specially designed to encourage the reuse and recycling of empty PBL Beer and Tribe bottles in Fiji’s vibrant tourism sector. With increasing concerns about discarded glass bottles filling landfills, particularly those associated with PBL, this initiative offers a forward-thinking solution for their recovery.
This program also serves as a call for the entire tourism industry to take accountability and work towards a cleaner, more sustainable Fiji. The Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi has become the first hotel to adopt the ‘Lase Vou’ program, showcasing its dedication to sustainability and setting a commendable standard for other hotels and resorts in the country.
Amitesh Deo, the founder of the Pacific Recycling Foundation, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, highlighting its potential for substantial impact. He stated, “The ‘Lase Vou’ program aims to engage hotels and resorts in a collective effort to minimize waste, foster a circular economy, and ensure the efficient collection and recycling of empty PBL bottles.”
Deo emphasized the intention to build a strong network within the tourism sector where best practices in waste management can be shared and implemented, resulting in a meaningful decrease in the environmental impact of these establishments. He added that collaboration can create a sustainability model that not only benefits the environment but also supports the communities vital to the industry.
He expressed gratitude to Paradise Beverages Limited and Tourism Fiji for their essential contributions in launching the ‘Lase Vou’ program. Paradise Beverages, a key collaborator, underscored the program’s relevance in achieving its sustainability objectives.
Mike Spencer, General Manager of Paradise Beverages, remarked that sustainability should be seen not only as a goal but as a responsibility. “The ‘Lase Vou’ program aligns seamlessly with our commitment to minimize our environmental footprint and support a circular economy. We have reached a 92% collection rate for our larger bottles this year, and we are excited to partner with the Pacific Recycling Foundation and Waste Recyclers Fiji Limited to enhance the collection rates of our smaller bottles for better recovery and reuse,” he noted.
Spencer added, “We take pride in being involved in an initiative that addresses waste management challenges while helping to preserve Fiji’s natural beauty, which is vital to our tourism sector.”
Leigh Howard, Chief Operations Officer of Tourism Fiji, reiterated these views, emphasizing the importance of partnerships with the Pacific Recycling Foundation and other stakeholders in progressing towards sustainability.
Tanoa Hotel Area General Manager, Narend Kumar, conveyed enthusiasm for the ‘Lase Vou’ program, stating, “For the Tanoa International Hotel, this is not just a service enhancement; it signifies a commitment to lessen our environmental footprint while still providing an outstanding guest experience.”