Moce Benu, a business based at the Centre for Appropriate Technology and Development (CATD) in Nadave, is making a significant impact in Fiji by teaching students about minimizing and upcycling waste plastic. This initiative, launched by former students Losana Tinainuku and Filimoni Delasau, received seed funding from the British High Commission, with technology developed through the LPM project in Australia.
The upcycling process begins with the collection of unwashed and unsorted waste plastic, which is typically deemed expensive to recycle. This plastic is transformed through a process of melting and compressing it into various products such as bowls, platters, flying discs, poles, and building materials that are then encased in woven materials like cotton, hemp, tapas, or fiberglass. This outer layer not only enhances the aesthetics of the products but also gives them consistent physical properties and the potential for customization, including logos or advertising.
Moreover, Moce Benu is actively establishing collection points at local schools and providing hands-on education to students on how to effectively minimize and upcycle waste, thereby fostering a culture of sustainability and environmental responsibility among the youth.
This initiative aligns with efforts observed in other recent projects across Fiji, including the Circular Pacific Plastics Project, which aims to address soft plastic pollution by engaging both businesses and consumers actively. With similar objectives, these initiatives collectively demonstrate a hopeful trend toward improved waste management and environmental sustainability in Fiji.
As Fiji continues to tackle its waste challenges, projects like Moce Benu serve as important examples of how community engagement and educational initiatives can lead to meaningful contributions toward a cleaner, greener future. The collaboration between local organizations and international support highlights not just the commitment to sustainability but also the potential for innovative solutions to emerge from grassroots efforts.
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