The Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) has reported a troubling increase in the number of used needles and syringes found during its recycling initiatives and community cleanup efforts.
In a recent press statement, PRF highlighted the concerning rise in drug-related waste detected in their programs. Amitesh Deo, the founder of PRF, expressed serious alarm regarding the improper disposal of these hazardous items, which are increasingly turning up in recycling bins.
Deo emphasized that such reckless actions pose significant risks to the safety of recycling workers. “As a grassroots organization, we are seeing the extent of Fiji’s drug crisis within the various communities we serve, along with a disturbing rise in the presence of needles and syringes in our recycling efforts and community clean-ups,” he stated.
He called for urgent action to create referral pathways and establish rehabilitation facilities with specialized support to address the ongoing drug crisis. Deo reinforced that medical waste, including needles and syringes, must be disposed of through secure and specialized channels since recycling programs are not equipped to handle these materials.
PRF is urging all sectors to increase vigilance and cooperation to ensure proper management of hazardous waste. “We cannot afford to overlook the potential dangers posed by these practices. The safety of our workers and the success of our recycling efforts depend on immediate action and accountability.”