As we usher in 2025, the Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) is urging collective efforts to enhance the achievements of 2024 and overcome the obstacles that impede sustainable waste management. PRF’s founder, Amitesh Deo, emphasized that despite significant advancements in addressing Fiji’s waste management issues with the help of partners, there is still much work to be done.
Deo declared 2025 the year for meaningful change through authentic and cross-sector collaboration. He stated, “Let this be the year we break barriers and achieve lasting transformation.” He acknowledged the milestones reached in 2024 but stressed the need to convert these achievements into sustainable, scalable solutions that encompass all communities and tackle the core issues perpetuating the waste management crisis.
Among PRF’s key accomplishments in 2024 was the establishment of the Pacific Recyclers Alliance, which promotes regional collaboration to confront shared waste management challenges. Additionally, the recognition of “collection pillars of recycling” in regional literature has provided essential dignity and visibility to informal recyclables collectors.
The foundation also expanded its initiatives to Fiji’s outer islands, initiated an innovative soft plastics recycling project, and facilitated the transition of informal recyclables collectors to formal employment through the “I Recycle” program, which has been adopted by over 20 organizations and communities. Thanks to these recycling efforts, PRF successfully diverted 4,837 tonnes—almost five million kilograms—of recyclables from landfill sites in 2024.
While celebrating these successes, Deo highlighted the need to address gaps, especially in underserved regions. He described the real challenge for 2025 as scaling these efforts, moving away from outdated waste management practices, and ensuring inclusive and sustainable solutions.
He called upon the government to take transformative action in waste management by prioritizing long-term strategies through partnerships with PRF rather than relying on short-term solutions. Furthermore, Deo urged businesses to look beyond superficial sustainability measures and invest in actionable, long-lasting solutions, reinforcing that corporate responsibility entails being accountable for environmental impacts and actively contributing to systemic change.
This call to action serves as a hopeful reminder that through collaborative efforts, tangible progress can be made towards a greener and more sustainable future. By fostering partnerships and prioritizing long-term strategies, the region can make significant strides in transforming waste management practices for the betterment of all communities.
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