Fiji’s approach to waste management has drawn criticism from industry leaders for being ineffective and primarily cosmetic. Amitesh Deo, founder of the Pacific Recycling Foundation and CEO of Waste Recyclers Fiji Ltd, voiced serious concerns regarding recent land, creek, and river clean-up campaigns. While he acknowledges the increased political will and community partnerships, he argues that these initiatives should not be mistaken for genuine waste management solutions.
Deo categorized these efforts as “media-friendly, short-term” actions that fail to address the deeper issues plaguing Fiji’s waste management system. He questioned the fate of waste collected during these campaigns, asking whether it is being properly processed or simply ends up in landfills. His critique extends to the use of schoolchildren in such initiatives, labeling it as a form of exploitation and stressing the need for adult accountability in tackling waste disposal challenges.
This sentiment of calling for structural reforms has been echoed in previous discussions surrounding Fiji’s waste management crisis. The Pacific Recycling Foundation has highlighted the importance of community education and individual responsibility as pivotal in changing waste disposal practices. Efforts to educate the public about proper waste disposal and encourage recycling have been part of ongoing initiatives, aiming to create a more sustainable future for Fiji.
Looking ahead, there remains a cautious optimism. The Pacific Recycling Foundation has taken significant steps in 2024 that serve as a foundation for better waste management practices, and with a collective approach involving communities, businesses, and the government, Fiji has the potential to progress toward a more sustainable future. By focusing on meaningful actions rather than superficial gestures, there is hope for a cleaner and healthier environment for all Fijians.
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