The Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) is extending the conversation on waste management to maritime areas.
In partnership with Tourism Fiji, PRF is set to hold a first-of-its-kind stakeholder meeting on Taveuni, known as the Garden Island, this week.
Amitesh Deo, the founder of PRF, emphasized the importance of altering mindsets and behaviors towards recycling and effective waste management for creating a sustainable environment.
“PRF’s 3 ‘A’s approach – Advocacy for Change, Actions for Sustainable Impact, and Action Joining Hands, seeks to promote collective responsibility towards a circular economy. This approach ensures that recycling solutions benefit everyone, irrespective of social status, ethnicity, or background,” he explained.
He added that extending recycling initiatives to Taveuni is a part of PRF’s “Look Beyond” movement-building strategy. This strategy underscores that improved waste management systems should not be confined to specific sectors or groups based on socio-economic status.
“This initiative calls for inclusive solutions that benefit all communities equally,” Deo said.
Brent Hill, CEO of Tourism Fiji, expressed pride in supporting PRF’s efforts to tackle waste management issues on Taveuni.
“Sustainable tourism is intrinsically linked with environmental stewardship,” Hill said. “Taveuni is a natural treasure, and it is critically important to safeguard its natural resources and foster a sense of responsibility among the communities.”
He noted that Tourism Fiji looks forward to partnering with PRF and local stakeholders to develop effective recycling solutions that benefit both the community and the natural environment of the island.
Deo mentioned that the inaugural event, scheduled for July 18 in Taveuni, was organized in response to pressing requests from Taveuni residents, especially the Taveuni Tourism Association, for improved waste management solutions.
He highlighted that like many other outer islands and maritime areas in Fiji, Taveuni faces challenges due to a lack of a proper waste management system.
The meeting on July 18 will gather a diverse group of stakeholders, including senior officials from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, the Ministry of Local Government, the Ministry of Trade, Co-operatives and Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications, and the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development. Development partner GIZ, private sector representatives, key figures from the tourism industry, Savusavu Town Council, and local community members will also participate in the discussions.