Fiji’s scenic beauty is often overshadowed by the pressing issue of litter, particularly plastic waste. This concern is voiced by 62-year-old Daveta Liku from Serua, who has discovered a way to contribute positively to her environment while earning a living.
Ms. Liku, of Rewa origin, has been an active member of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei (SSV) Serua since 1985. This week, she celebrated the organization’s centennial anniversary, joined by over a hundred members who shared in honoring their collective journey. Throughout her years with SSV, Ms. Liku has leveraged the programs offered to craft beautiful home décor items from plastic waste.
Expressing her concern about the neglect towards waste management, she remarked on the great potential individuals have to transform discarded materials into meaningful creations. “I began actively participating in the SSV in 1985, learning to create handmade products from locally sourced items. Today, I repurpose items such as empty plastic bottles and packaging into floral decorations,” Ms. Liku stated.
Highlighting her entrepreneurial spirit, she encouraged others to explore similar creative avenues. “You can sell these decorative pieces for around $5 and even use them to embellish your home. It’s a simple and accessible method for anyone willing to invest time into it. Additionally, by utilizing recycled materials, we play a part in reducing pollution on land and at sea.”
Ms. Liku called for greater community awareness regarding environmental stewardship. “The resources are available to create financial opportunities through recycling. It’s very achievable, and we need to wake up to the benefits it can bring to families.”
The work of individuals like Ms. Liku showcases not only innovation but also a commitment to preserving the natural beauty of Fiji. By turning waste into art, they demonstrate that community engagement and environmental consciousness can go hand in hand, fostering a brighter future for both the people and the land.
This positive perspective highlights that collective action can effectively combat environmental challenges, inspiring others to recognize the value in recycling and responsible waste management. The upcoming expo will further celebrate these innovative efforts, offering a platform for showcasing creativity and environmental awareness.
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