As Hindus celebrate Krishna Janmashtami, the Pacific Recycling Foundation is urging the public to ensure that traditional rituals, such as visarjan (immersion), are carried out in ways that protect our oceans and environment.
They say throwing plastics and other harmful materials into the sea after religious festivals remains a serious environmental concern in Fiji.
PRF Founder, Amitesh Deo says this is an opportune time to embrace more sustainable ways of celebrating.
Deo’s plea to all religious groups participating in visarjan following the celebrations this weekend is to be vigilant about the materials they immerse.
He says there are proper procedures for the disposal of religious items in Suva, but this is not the case everywhere — hence PRF’s call for greater awareness and consistent action.
Deo is also calling on religious leaders to use their influence to advocate environmentally responsible practices within their communities.
He further says that religious leaders have a powerful voice, and incorporating messages about environmental protection into religious practices has become an absolute necessity.
The PRF Founder adds our oceans and environment are a source of life, food, and livelihoods — and protecting them should be part of our devotion.
