The Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF), in partnership with USAID’s Clean Cities, Blue Ocean (CCBO) Program and the Lautoka City Council, has expanded its ‘I Recycle’ initiative in Lautoka, building on a successful model initially launched in Suva. This expansion aims to enhance sustainable waste management practices in Fiji, particularly by diverting recyclable materials from the Vunato Dumpsite.
The program offers businesses and the community, especially visitors to Tappoo City, an effective waste management solution. A significant aspect of this initiative is the creation of green job opportunities for the Collection Pillars of Recycling (CPR) in Lautoka. For some of these workers, this marks a transition from informal collection of recyclables at dumpsites to stable, structured employment within the recycling program.
These individuals will play crucial roles in capturing, sorting, and transferring recyclables from Tappoo City, ensuring proper processing and recycling. PRF Founder Amitesh Deo hailed this initiative as a significant step forward for environmental sustainability and social empowerment.
Deo emphasized the importance of this project as a turning point for waste management and social equity in Fiji. It provides an organized pathway for CPR members to secure dignified employment, highlighting the collaborative efforts of partners such as USAID CCBO, Tappoo Fiji Limited, Lautoka City Council, and Global Clean & Pest Solutions.
Michael Glees, Acting Director of USAID Pacific Islands Mission, noted that the partnership aims to make tangible advances in sustainable waste management while creating job opportunities for those on the frontlines of environmental protection.
This initiative not only addresses waste management challenges but also uplifts the lives of workers previously engaged in informal collection, showcasing the positive impact of collaboration between governmental and non-governmental organizations in Fiji.
This development represents a hopeful step toward both a cleaner environment and improved livelihoods for recycling workers, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and community advancement.
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