Waste Recyclers Fiji Ltd (WRFL) has made significant progress in its recycling efforts this year, collecting nearly 100 tonnes of soft plastics and 16 tonnes of PET from plastic bottles. As a division of the Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF), WRFL focuses on managing the mounting waste crisis that Fiji faces. Founder Amitesh Deo emphasized that the collected plastics have been cleaned, compacted, and sent to overseas partners for recycling, pointing out that without these initiatives, a large portion of this waste could have ended up in landfills, dumpsites, or the environment.
Deo highlighted the challenge that Fiji is grappling with regarding waste management, as inadequate systems have allowed plastics to infiltrate the ecosystem, even entering food sources. The situation has been exacerbated by climate change, with coastal communities forced to relocate due to rising sea levels and the government incurring escalating costs for waste management infrastructure.
A substantial portion of Fiji’s waste—around 80 percent—is directed to the Naboro sanitary landfill, which processes 184 tonnes of waste daily. However, this landfill, serving the central part of the main island, faces challenges given the lack of proper waste disposal and recycling systems on outer islands, underscoring the need for expanded initiatives.
Estimates indicate that Fiji places around 47,000 tonnes of plastics on the market annually, with significant portions used for packaging. In response to this issue, PRF is collaborating with ANZPAC to develop a sustainable recycling model that not only targets businesses but also engages consumers, aiming to foster environmental awareness and responsible waste management practices.
By tapping into local expertise and forming strong partnerships, this pilot program intends to pave the way for a scalable solution that addresses Fiji’s unique waste management needs, showcasing a hopeful step forward in tackling the waste crisis in the Pacific region.
This article illustrates the importance of concerted efforts in environmental sustainability and waste management, revealing a commitment to innovative practices that can lead to positive change and a cleaner future.
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