As we enter 2025, the Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) is urging a unified approach to advance the progress made in 2024 and tackle the challenges of sustainable waste management. Amitesh Deo, the foundation’s founder, emphasizes that despite significant achievements over the past year, the journey towards effective waste management is ongoing, and 2025 must be pivotal for lasting change through collaborative efforts across different sectors.
Deo stated, “Let this be the year we break barriers and achieve lasting transformation.” He acknowledged that while 2024 saw important progress, it is critical to transform these milestones into sustainable solutions that involve all communities and address the root causes of the waste management crisis.
In 2024, PRF established the Pacific Recyclers Alliance, fostering regional cooperation to confront shared waste challenges. Additionally, the recognition of ‘Collection Pillars of Recycling’ highlighted the vital role of informal recyclers, bringing them much-needed visibility and dignity.
PRF also made key advances in recycling initiatives in Fiji’s outer islands, launched a new soft plastics recycling project, and transitioned its community recyclers into formal employment through the ‘I Recycle’ program, which now includes over 20 organizations and communities.
Through its various programs, including those from its entrepreneurial arm, Waste Recyclers Fiji Limited, PRF is collaborating with more than 60 organizations from diverse sectors like finance, education, tourism, and telecommunications, effectively diverting recyclables from landfills. In 2024 alone, they succeeded in diverting 4,837 tonnes, nearing 5 million kilograms, of recyclables, marking a significant transition towards improved waste management practices.
Despite these accomplishments, Deo cautioned that this is only the beginning. He stressed the importance of focusing on existing gaps, particularly in underserved areas, and expanding efforts away from outdated practices. The foundation is calling on the Government for bold and transformative changes in waste management, encouraging policymakers to work with PRF to develop long-term solutions rather than temporary fixes.
Deo urged businesses to transcend superficial initiatives, stating that corporate responsibility is crucial for a sustainable future. Companies need to take accountability for their environmental impact and play a proactive role in creating systemic change.
This call to action is a hopeful reminder that through collaboration and commitment, significant strides can be made towards a sustainable future for waste management. By implementing effective strategies and engaging all sectors, we can aspire to a cleaner, more efficient environment that benefits everyone.
In summary, the Pacific Recycling Foundation is advocating for intensified efforts in sustainable waste management as we step into 2025, highlighting the necessity for collaboration across communities, businesses, and government to build upon the successes of 2024 and drive meaningful change.
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