About 1,200 Fijians stood in solidarity for environmental advocacy as the Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) hosted its Fourth Annual Roadside Campaign under the theme Stand in Solidarity to Protect Our Environment in Nadi.
The campaign was held to mark World Environment Day and World Oceans Day, also celebrated the Ministry of Environment's decision to reject the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report for the proposed Waste-to-Energy project in Vuda, with participants highlighting the importance of environmental protection, ocean conservation and responsible waste management.
PRF says participants from 21 schools, organisations, community groups and government agencies took part in the one-hour demonstration, standing shoulder-to-shoulder to raise awareness about environmental protection and the shared responsibility of safeguarding Fiji's ecosystems.
During the campaign, participants became the voice of the environment and oceans through placards, messages, performances and advocacy, highlighting environmental issues that often go unheard.
Organisers say the Ministry's decision to reject the Environmental Impact Assessment reflects the importance of evidence-based decision-making, public participation and sustained environmental advocacy in protecting Fiji's future.
The event was followed by the Pacific Recycling Foundation's signature "Safe Space" session, where participants shared their environmental concerns, hopes and aspirations through poetry, speeches, songs, artwork, dance and other creative performances.
Pacific Recycling Foundation Founder Amitesh Deo says the campaign has evolved beyond an event and is increasingly becoming a movement driven by community ownership and collective action.
Deo says when the campaign started four years ago, the aim was to create a space where people could stand together and speak on behalf of the environment and oceans that could not speak for themselves.
He says seeing people from different walks of life unite for a common cause was a reminder that environmental advocacy belongs to everyone.
Deo says the long-term vision is for communities throughout Fiji to organise their own roadside campaigns and stand in solidarity for the environment.
He says the dream is for the initiative to become a national movement, where people dedicate one hour of their time to environmental protection.
Deo adds that growing participation over the years demonstrates increasing environmental awareness and a willingness among communities to become part of the solution.
He says what gives the Foundation hope is not only the number of participants but also the diversity of support, with students, businesses, government agencies, recyclers, community leaders, families and advocates all standing together to send a strong message that environmental protection is a shared responsibility.
The Fourth Annual Roadside Campaign builds on the momentum of previous years and reflects the continued growth of a movement aimed at inspiring environmental awareness, community action and long-term behavioural change.
The Pacific Recycling Foundation thanked all participating schools, organisations, volunteers, supporters and partners who contributed to the success of the campaign.
PRF gave special acknowledgement to Nadi Town Council, Fiji Airways, Vuda Marina, Hot Bread Kitchen, Punjas, Autoworld, Motor Winders, Axial Engineering, Flour Mills of Fiji, Fiji Chemicals Limited, Creative Designs Limited, Professional Security Services Limited, The Kidney Hub Foundation, Pacific Specialist Healthcare and Tanoa Hotels for their support.
Organisers say the support of partners continues to strengthen a growing movement as Fiji works towards a more sustainable future.
