Fiji’s outer islands are grappling with a severe waste management crisis, according to Amitesh Deo, founder and chief executive of the Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF). With communities on islands such as Ovalau, Kadavu, Rotuma, Taveuni, and Malolo urgently seeking help, Deo emphasizes the pressing need for sustainable waste solutions on these islands.
Currently, the PRF is implementing a recycling initiative in Taveuni in partnership with GIZ and local government ministries. Set to begin this year, this comprehensive program aims to tackle waste issues directly. However, the rising demands from other outer islands illustrate the lack of structured support and waste management frameworks outside Viti Levu. This situation jeopardizes both the environment and the livelihood of these communities.
Deo highlighted that a team, led by PRF Co-Founder Joseph Inoke, is currently assessing conditions in Rotuma to provide tailored solutions. Unfortunately, the organization’s efforts are hindered by the fact that they must cover all costs themselves due to a lack of dedicated funding for such vital programs.
“The situation in the outer islands is dire,” Deo stated. He noted that waste generation is increasing rapidly, risking ocean contamination and posing significant health hazards. He insisted that a collective effort from government bodies, donor agencies, and the private sector is critical for establishing effective waste management solutions in these vulnerable communities.
While the PRF has been successful in rolling out recycling programs on Viti Levu, there is an urgent need to focus on the outer islands, where basic waste disposal facilities are often absent. “Without immediate action, the environmental and health risks will continue to escalate,” he warned, noting the repercussions for marine ecosystems, community livelihoods, and biodiversity.
PRF is reaching out to government agencies and development partners to collaborate on this urgent issue, stressing that addressing waste management challenges isn’t solely an environmental concern—it’s essential for fostering sustainable development and enhancing climate resilience in these island communities. The PRF is ready to lead initiatives to build sustainable waste management practices but emphasizes that they cannot do it alone.
Overall, this call to action represents a hopeful opportunity for partnership and growth, providing a path toward improved environmental health and community well-being for Fiji’s outer islands.
Leave a comment