Fijians are being urged to break barriers and create lasting change in waste management in 2025.
Pacific Recycling Foundation, Founder, Amitesh Deo says the country must build on the milestones achieved in 2024, focusing on inclusive and sustainable solutions that leave no community behind.
Deo says the accomplishments of 2024 were important steps forward, but now is the time to turn those milestones into sustainable, scalable solutions that include every community and address the underlying issues of the waste management crisis.
He further says in 2024, Fiji made remarkable advancements in waste management, including the formation of the Pacific Recyclers Alliance to strengthen regional cooperation, the expansion of recycling initiatives to outer islands and the launch of a pioneering soft plastics recycling project.
Deo adds PRF’s ‘I Recycle’ program also gained momentum, with over 20 organisations and communities actively participating, while its entrepreneurial arm, Waste Recyclers Fiji Limited, engaged more than 60 organisations to divert close to 5 million kilograms of recyclables from landfills.
He says despite these successes,gaps remain, particularly in underserved areas.
He says expanding efforts, shifting away from outdated practices, is a critical goal for 2025.
He is calling on the government to take bold action and prioritize long-term waste management solutions, saying this is not the time for half-measures as the crisis demands decisive action.
Deo also urges businesses to move beyond superficial sustainability efforts.
He says corporate responsibility is not just about fulfilling a duty but about ensuring a sustainable future for all, and businesses must take accountability for their environmental impact and actively drive systemic change.
Deo says small actions, such as supporting the Collection Pillars of Recycling or properly disposing of recyclables, can collectively create significant impact.
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