The Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) has clarified that it has not directed any statements toward the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change or any government officials. Founder Amitesh Deo responded firmly to recent criticisms from Minister Mosese Bulitavu, who expressed discontent with Deo’s concerns regarding the role of students in environmental clean-up efforts post-public events.
In his statement, Deo emphasized PRF’s supportive stance on youth involvement in environmental advocacy, distinguishing the issue as one of respect and dignity for young people. “Our concern centers not on young volunteers’ participation, which we champion, but on the troubling trend of involving students in cleaning up after adults who irresponsibly litter,” he remarked. He argued that having students clean up after events undermines the values of dignity and respect they should embody truly.
Deo reiterated that PRF does not blame the Ministry for this issue but instead urges adults to take responsibility for their waste. He acknowledged the government’s current initiatives in waste management, including Fiji’s two-year National Anti-Litter Campaign and efforts regarding single-use plastics, emphasizing PRF’s continuous support for structured and sustainable reforms within Fiji’s waste management system.
This ongoing dialogue highlights the critical relationship between youth engagement and community responsibility in environmental stewardship. PRF’s efforts aim to foster an inclusive waste management culture that empowers both the youth and the community while ensuring that the adults lead by example for a cleaner and greener future.
The exchange underscores the need for collaboration among community members, government institutions, and nonprofits to collectively address waste management challenges in Fiji. With positive initiatives like Fiji’s integrated approach to litter management and awareness campaigns, there is potential for significant progress towards a more sustainable environment.
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