In a significant step towards promoting sustainability, the Pacific Recycling Foundation and Waste Recyclers Fiji Limited, in collaboration with Paradise Beverages Limited and Tourism Fiji, launched the ‘Lase Vou’ program at the Fiji Tourism Recycling Forum in Nadi today. This initiative focuses on encouraging the reuse and recycling of empty PBL Beer and Tribe bottles within Fiji’s active tourism sector.
As concerns rise over the increasing number of empty glass bottles, particularly from PBL, ending up in landfills, this program presents an innovative solution for their recovery. The ‘Lase Vou’ initiative calls upon the entire tourism industry to take accountability and work towards a cleaner, more sustainable Fiji.
Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi has become the first hotel to adopt the ‘Lase Vou’ program, showcasing its dedication to sustainability and setting a positive example for other hotels and resorts across Fiji.
Amitesh Deo, the founder of the Pacific Recycling Foundation, expressed excitement about the program’s potential impact, stating that it aims to promote collaboration among hotels and resorts to reduce waste, foster a circular economy, and ensure efficient collection and recycling of empty PBL bottles. Deo mentioned that the goal is to create a strong network within the tourism sector to share and implement best practices in waste management, ultimately reducing the environmental footprints of these establishments.
He emphasized that through collective action, a sustainable model can be developed, benefiting not only the environment but also the communities that are vital to the tourism industry. Deo also acknowledged the crucial roles of Paradise Beverages Limited and Tourism Fiji in bringing the ‘Lase Vou’ program to fruition.
Paradise Beverages, a key partner in this initiative, underlined the program’s significance in meeting its sustainability objectives. Mike Spencer, General Manager of Paradise Beverages, emphasized that sustainability is a responsibility, not just a goal. He noted that the ‘Lase Vou’ program aligns with their efforts to lessen their environmental impact and promote a circular economy, pointing out their notable 92% collection rate for large bottles so far this year. Spencer expressed optimism for increasing the collection rates of smaller bottles in partnership with the Pacific Recycling Foundation and Waste Recyclers Fiji Limited, ensuring more bottles are recovered and reused.
Furthermore, he expressed pride in being part of an initiative that addresses waste management challenges while contributing to the preservation of Fiji’s natural beauty, which is vital to its tourism sector.
Tourism Fiji Chief Operations Officer Leigh Howard supported these views, affirming that their partnership with the Pacific Recycling Foundation and other collaborators has been essential in achieving substantial progress towards sustainability.
Narend Kumar, Area General Manager of Tanoa Hotel, shared his enthusiasm for the ‘Lase Vou’ program, stating that for the Tanoa International Hotel, it signifies more than just enhanced service; it represents a commitment to minimizing its environmental impact while still providing an outstanding guest experience.