The Pacific Recycling Foundation management has engaged in constructive discussions with Time Magazine to express concerns regarding its article on "Inside Fiji’s Fiery Battle Against Plastics”.
PRF Founder Amitesh Deo highlighted their concerns about the portrayal of Fiji’s marginalised community, particularly the collection pillars of recycling from the informal recyclable collection sector.
Deo stressed the importance of conducting interviews with the utmost care when dealing with vulnerable groups as they expect the media to protect the dignity of these individuals.
During a meeting with Time Magazine’s contributor, Aryn Baker, founder conveyed PRF and their partners' concerns regarding the article's content, maybe unintentional of singling out the CPR community as the cause of burning plastic waste.
He says media partners need to be sensitive that in their efforts to give a sensational spin to a story or to attempt to capture photos with the intention of scooping awards, that they do not cause harm or contribute to further stigmatisation of vulnerable groups.
Following the article’s publication, Deo says PRF took immediate action to support the affected CPR, whereby the CPR was offered counselling through referrals to local expert partners to address the psychological impact caused by the portrayal.
PRF acknowledges Time Magazine for raising awareness about plastic pollution but they also want to highlight the unintended harm caused to a Collection Pillar of Recycling - in this case, an elderly woman who has dedicated over 24 years of her life to collecting recyclables.
Deo says these individuals have played a critical role in the recycling sector for decades.
During the meeting Time Magazine’s contributor acknowledged that while the article aimed to raise awareness about plastic waste burning, it could have portrayed vulnerable communities better and not put them at further risk of stigma.
