On March 18, 2025, during the Global Recycling Day celebration, Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica emphasized that recycling has transitioned from an optional practice to an urgent necessity amid environmental challenges linked to urbanization and consumer habits. He stressed the importance of integrating sustainability into Fiji’s national development agenda.
The event, held at Churchill Park in Lautoka and organized by the Pacific Recycling Foundation, also marked the launch of the “I Recycle” program. This new initiative establishes Churchill Park as the first sports facility in Fiji, and the broader region, to implement a comprehensive waste management strategy. Kamikamica praised this milestone as a model for both public and private sectors to follow.
Kamikamica recognized Lautoka’s successful waste management practices and encouraged other cities to adopt similar measures. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to creating a sustainable economy, noting the strong link between economic advancement and sustainable practices. “We are determined to support green businesses and foster sustainable entrepreneurship,” he stated.
During the event, the Deputy Prime Minister signed the Pacific Recycling Foundation’s Blueprint, which aims to address the pressing waste management challenges in the region. He called on all Fijians to actively participate in waste reduction and recycling efforts, declaring, “We need real action, real commitment, and real change.”
These remarks echo previous sentiments from Pacific Recycling Foundation founder Amitesh Deo, who has advocated for collaborative efforts among communities and policymakers to enhance recycling infrastructure. Notably, Fiji has seen a 20% increase in recycling activities recently, reflecting a growing public awareness, though there remains significant progress to be made in overall recycling rates.
The successful rollout of the “I Recycle” initiative, coupled with the government’s ongoing environmental initiatives, holds promise for a greener future in Fiji. As community-focused efforts gain momentum, there is potential for significant improvements in waste management, paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable environment for all citizens.
By adopting these sustainable practices, Fiji can foster a culture of environmental responsibility that benefits both current and future generations.
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