The newly established Pacific Recyclers Alliance is making strides in advancing grassroots recycling initiatives and empowering those known as Collection Pillars of Recycling—individuals engaged in the collection of recyclables. This progress was highlighted during the 4th Clean Pacific Round Table (CPRT), which was held in Tuvalu and organized by SPREP.
The Secretariat of the Pacific Recyclers Alliance, part of the Pacific Recycling Foundation, hailed this development as a significant milestone for both the CPR community and the wider grassroots recycling sector.
Amitesh Deo, the Founder of the Pacific Recycling Foundation and the Secretary of the Pacific Recyclers Alliance, noted that the outcomes of the CPRT included the official recognition of the Pacific Recyclers Alliance. This alliance aims to unify six existing National Recyclers Associations to streamline waste management and pollution control across the Pacific while acknowledging the crucial role played by Collection Pillars of Recycling in the member states.
In addition, Pacific Island Countries and Territories have been encouraged to form National Recyclers Associations to broaden their membership and representation within the Alliance. Deo expressed optimism for the future, emphasizing that “Our voices are finally being heard.”
He highlighted that the acknowledgment of the role of Collection Pillars of Recycling in the CPRT outcomes represents a significant win for the many individuals involved in recyclable collection across Fiji and other Pacific nations.
“This recognition confirms the dedication and hard work of these communities, who are vital to the region’s recycling and waste management efforts,” Deo stated. He also mentioned that the term “Collection Pillars of Recycling,” initially introduced by a group of women in Vunato, Lautoka, who were formerly known as waste pickers, is now being cited in regional policy discussions.
This shift marks an important moment for informal recyclable collectors, elevating their terminology to high-level policy debates and emphasizing their essential role in developing sustainable waste management strategies throughout the Pacific.
Deo further stressed that this recognition enhances the status of informal recyclable collectors and fortifies the framework for sustainable waste management practices. The Pacific Recyclers Alliance is dedicated to continuing its advocacy and support for CPR and grassroots recycling organizations across the Pacific.