The Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF), in partnership with USAID’s Clean Cities, Blue Ocean (CCBO) Program and the Lautoka City Council, has announced the expansion of its ‘I Recycle’ program in Lautoka. This initiative builds on the program’s successful deployment at four locations in Suva, demonstrating PRF’s dedication to promoting sustainable waste management practices throughout Fiji.
The project specifically aims to redirect recyclables away from the Vunato Dumpsite, providing businesses and consumers, particularly those visiting Tappoo City, with sustainable waste disposal solutions. A significant aspect of this initiative is the creation of green job opportunities for the Collection Pillars of Recycling (CPR) in Lautoka. For the first time, some CPR participants will move from collecting recyclables in dumpsites and public areas to organized employment within this structured program.
These roles will focus on collecting, sorting, and transporting recyclables from Tappoo City, which marks a pivotal change in their professional lives. PRF Founder Amitesh Deo hailed the initiative as a groundbreaking development that enhances both environmental responsibility and social empowerment. He stated, “This project is a transformative milestone for waste management and social equity in Fiji. We are providing a structured pathway for our CPR to transition into green jobs, offering them dignified and stable employment opportunities.”
Deo acknowledged the collaborative efforts of their partners, including USAID CCBO, Tappoo Fiji Limited, Lautoka City Council, and Global Clean & Pest Solutions, for championing this inclusive and sustainable approach. He emphasized that through this partnership, they are not only addressing waste management issues but also improving lives and recognizing the vital roles of CPR.
Michael Glees, Acting Director of USAID Pacific Islands Mission, expressed support for the initiative, highlighting its role in creating green job opportunities for those actively engaged in combating environmental challenges. He reaffirmed USAID’s commitment to empowering local organizations and fostering sustainable waste management practices in Fiji.
This initiative not only signifies a positive shift in waste management strategies but also offers hope by uplifting the livelihoods of individuals involved in recycling efforts. By transforming the way waste is handled, the program also contributes to reducing ocean plastic pollution, suggesting a brighter future for both the environment and the local community.
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