Amitesh Deo, the chief executive of the Pacific Recycling Foundation, emphasized that waste management is a shared responsibility for all citizens. His remarks followed a cleanup campaign along Koronivia Road in Nausori, where volunteers collected a total of 596 kilograms of general waste and recyclables on Friday.
The initiative, which involved collaboration between the Pacific Recycling Foundation, Waste Recyclers Fiji Limited, Malhana Cloud Kitchen, the Koronivia Business Council, and local residents, began at the Koronivia Roundabout and concluded at the Shiv Krish Temple on Kabutri Drive. This area has faced challenges with significant amounts of waste being irresponsibly discarded along roadsides and into drains, creating risks for both the environment and public health.
“The amount of waste we collected in just two hours underscores the urgent necessity for all of us to abandon the throwaway culture and assume responsibility for our waste management. We must commit to maintaining Koronivia as a clean and green space for future generations,” stated Deo.
The cleanup effort revealed a considerable quantity of household waste and recyclables, including baby diapers, PET bottles, construction debris, beer bottles and cans, takeaway food containers, clothing, razors, and boxes filled with unused items. Many of these were found blocking drains after the Fiji Roads Authority had recently cut grass along the roadside.
Deo noted that it was regrettable that some waste had to be left behind due to the inability to safely access the soggy drains, which posed risks from hazardous objects that could harm those involved in the cleanup.
In total, the campaign yielded 500 kilograms of general waste, 60 kilograms of PET bottles, and 36 kilograms of aluminum cans. Deo pointed out that this considerable amount signifies an uptick in waste disposal in the area compared to prior cleanups, highlighting a concerning lack of accountability among both travelers and residents.
“This task goes beyond merely cleaning up waste; it entails transforming attitudes. We urge everyone to examine their habits and make intentional choices that contribute positively to our environment,” he added.
Deo also expressed appreciation to the Fiji Police Force for their support in ensuring safety and facilitating smooth traffic flow during the campaign.