The Waste Recyclers Fiji Limited has highlighted that its “I-Recycle Hub” is a revolutionary program because it will not only advocate for better waste management but will also pave the way for moving informal waste pickers into the formal sector.
Director and Chief Executive Officer Amitesh Deo says the entire I-Recycle concept is designed to change the way businesses, including resort properties, deal with recyclables, while entering into discussions to engage informal waste pickers where possible.
He says with some of the resorts where discussions have started and for those who require sorters onsite, they are looking at options of involving some informal waste pickers to be based at these resorts for the sorting of recyclable items.
Deo says this is an effort to transit some informal waste pickers to the formal sector.
He adds under the “I-Recycle Hub” program, recycling stations will be at the forefront of resorts or business houses, as opposed to being traditionally tucked away in backyards.
The CEO says this concept is an active form of recycling campaign and its being done to change mindsets and behaviour towards recycling.
Deo says the program is also designed to change people’s misconceptions about the recycling industry and those who derived their livelihoods from it.
He adds they are advocating for the recognition of recycling as an industry which is also aimed at addressing the stereotyping that recycling advocates and waste pickers usually suffer in the sense that their work lacks importance, status or meaning.
He says the name “I-Recycle” is also part of their awareness strategy as it brings out a sense of organizational or personal ownership and commitment toward recycling.
The Director says they are keen to showcase this program through a miniature models and in an art photo gallery at the 8th Fijian Tourism Expo that begins today to Friday at the Denarau Island Conference Centre at the Sheraton Fiji Resort in Nadi.
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