An immediate appeal has been made by the residents of Rotuma regarding the urgent need to address improper waste management on the island. Amitesh Deo, founder of the Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF), emphasized this concern during a roundtable discussion in Nadi, highlighting the organization’s commitment to developing solutions for rural and outer islands facing similar crises.
According to Deo, the community has recognized the serious implications of inadequate waste management, which poses both health risks and environmental hazards. “Rotuma was never going to be a trial area for us because of its geographical distance, but the local call for assistance is compelling,” he remarked. This situation is reflective of broader waste management challenges faced by several outer islands in Fiji, including Ovalau, Kadavu, and Taveuni. Similar issues have prompted PRF to spearhead initiatives aimed at creating structured and sustainable waste management systems.
Furthermore, Deo pointed out the pressing need for cooperation among government agencies, development partners, and the local community to address these challenges comprehensively. “It is not an easy problem to solve, but it is crucial that we look beyond urban centers and privileged communities to include those in rural areas in our advocacy for solutions,” he stated.
Recent efforts by PRF, including the Look Beyond initiative, aim to identify immediate and effective strategies to tackle the waste crisis in Rotuma and other outer islands. However, the foundation’s initiatives are largely self-funded, highlighting the need for collaborative investment in these vital programs.
The PRF’s continued outreach and calls for action signify a beacon of hope for the residents of Fiji’s outer islands. By working together and addressing waste management issues head-on, communities can look forward to a healthier environment and a sustainable future. The collective responsibility of all stakeholders will be critical in fostering long-term changes that benefit the environment and improve the quality of life for the people living in these regions.
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