The Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) has actively amplified the perspectives of grassroots recyclers from Fiji and the wider Pacific area at global discussions on waste management and sustainability. Their recent involvement at the 12th Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum in Jaipur, India, highlighted the theme “Realising Circular Societies Towards Achieving SDGs and Carbon Neutrality in Asia-Pacific.”
Amitesh Deo, the founder of PRF, addressed key development partners and government officials, advocating for the integration of informal recyclers into formal waste management frameworks. He stressed the need to shift attention from solely technical solutions to recognizing the individuals who play a critical role in waste collection. Deo asserted, “It’s time we realize that sustainability encompasses not only policies and technologies, but fundamentally the people behind recycling efforts.”
This advocacy is in line with the foundation’s mission and coincides with significant milestones achieved by PRF, such as diverting nearly five million kilograms of recyclable materials from landfills last year. This achievement highlights PRF’s dedication to sustainable waste management, reflecting their ongoing advocacy and collaboration across various sectors.
Deo’s contributions during a breakout session on sustainability issues further reinforced PRF’s involvement in the Global Recycling Day 2025 campaign. He emphasized that grassroots recyclers deserve acknowledgment and a voice in policy-making processes, which should accurately reflect the conditions faced by individuals actively involved in recycling.
The discussions at the forum served as a vital reminder of how crucial grassroots initiatives are in fostering meaningful environmental change. By promoting community engagement and collaboration across different sectors, PRF is paving the way towards a cleaner and more sustainable future.
Overall, PRF’s participation in the forum not only showcases its commitment to supporting grassroots recyclers but also acts as a call to action for policymakers to realize the indispensable role people play in sustainability. Acknowledging these contributions is essential for developing effective and inclusive waste management strategies that will enable the transition to circular economies in the region. The road ahead is bright, marked with the potential for transformative change driven by local communities.
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