Close to 70 participants representing government, tourism industry, development partners, the private sector and the local community gathered in Taveuni to provide their feedback and endorse key components of Pacific Recycling Foundation’s comprehensive plan to address the island’s waste management challenges.
The Strategy Implementation Consultation, held at Somosomo Village Hall and officiated by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Communications Manoa Kamikamica, marked a critical step in the island’s journey towards sustainable waste management.
Pacific Recycling Foundation Founder, Amitesh Deo described the consultation as a pivotal moment, emphasising its importance in engaging the local community and the project is earmarked for implementation in March 2025.
Deo says this consultation allowed the local community and various stakeholders to share their insights on projects that will directly impact their lives, ensuring they are genuinely part of the decision-making process.
He says the consultation focuses on the three key components announced earlier this year by PRF, with stakeholders offering valuable insights to further refine Taveuni’s waste management strategy.
The first component is a School Recycling Program to be implemented at Holy Cross College and Holy Cross Primary School that aims to educate students on best recycling practices, fostering a sense of environmental responsibility from an early age.
The second component is a Hotel and Resort Recycling Initiative, where a central collection point will be established for hotels and resorts to effectively manage their recyclables.
Lastly, the formation of a Cooperative, composed of women and other community members, will lead the collection of recyclables on the island.
Deo also expressed gratitude to key partners, Tourism Fiji and the Taveuni Tourism Association, for their critical role in supporting the consultation.
