As we usher in 2025, the Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) is urging for united efforts to leverage the advancements achieved in 2024 while dismantling the barriers that persist in effective waste management practices. Founder Amitesh Deo emphasizes that while there have been noteworthy improvements in addressing Fiji’s waste management issues, substantial work remains to transform these achievements into meaningful, sustainable solutions.
Deo stated, “This year should be a turning point where we break down obstacles and strive for significant change. The milestones reached in 2024 were promising, but now we need to focus on creating scalable solutions that engage every community and tackle the root causes of the waste crisis.”
In 2024, PRF took a vital step by establishing the Pacific Recyclers Alliance, promoting regional collaboration to tackle mutual waste management challenges. The recognition of ‘Collection Pillars of Recycling’ in regional discussions has also elevated the status and visibility of informal recycling collectors.
PRF has made notable progress in expanding recycling operations to Fiji’s outer islands, initiated an innovative soft plastics recycling project, and facilitated the formal employment of collectors through its ‘I Recycle’ scheme. This initiative now includes over 20 organizations and communities, demonstrating widespread acceptance and growth.
Through collaborations with Waste Recyclers Fiji Limited, more than 60 organizations across diverse sectors—including education, finance, tourism, and telecommunications—are effectively diverting recyclable materials away from landfills. In 2024 alone, nearly 5 million kilograms of recyclables were diverted, indicating a significant transition toward improved waste management.
However, Deo reminds us that these advancements mark only the beginning. He underlines the need for concentrated efforts in underserved regions and calls upon the government and businesses to make transformative commitments to waste management strategies. “This is not a time for partial measures—decisive action is needed to confront the waste management crisis,” he said.
Moreover, he encourages corporations to go beyond superficial measures and truly invest in sustainable practices that promote long-term environmental health. Deo asserts that corporate responsibility is essential for ensuring a sustainable future, urging businesses to take accountability for their ecological footprint and actively drive systemic change.
Overall, the outlook for 2025 is one of hope and determination. With continued collaboration and commitment, Fiji’s waste management systems can evolve into models of sustainability that benefit not only the environment but also the diverse communities they serve. The road ahead may be challenging, but the progress made so far serves as a strong foundation for the transformative actions needed in the coming year.
Leave a comment