Pacific Recycling Foundation calls for holistic waste management after FRA highlights blocked drains and flooding

The Pacific Recycling Foundation has emphasized the urgent need for a holistic approach to waste management in Fiji, following concerns raised by the Fiji Roads Authority over poor rubbish disposal practices causing blocked drains and road flooding during heavy rainfall.

According to the FRA, large amounts of household rubbish, including plastic bottles, takeaway containers, and food wrappers, were found clogging cross culverts and catch pits during recent clean-up efforts.

PRF Founder Amitesh Deo says the problem reflects deeper challenges across Fiji’s waste management landscape.

He says when drains continue to be blocked and roads are affected, it tells us that what we are facing is not just a clean-up issue, it is a behaviour issue, a system issue, and an accountability issue.

He adds that while authorities continue their work in cleaning and maintaining drains, these efforts alone cannot prevent the recurrence of flooding and deteriorating road conditions if irresponsible disposal practices persist at the household and community level.

Deo says we must move away from reactive measures and work together to prevent waste from reaching our drains, water systems, and roads in the first place.

He also stressed that the impacts of poor waste management are felt most severely by vulnerable communities, especially during the cyclone season when heavy rainfall and flooding increase health and safety risks.

He says this concern led to the initiation of PRF’s Vaka Forum series, which brings together various sectors and key agencies to develop and implement coordinated interventions for Fiji’s waste management challenges.

Deo explains that the Vaka Forums aim to strengthen proper waste management practices at source and reduce the burden of costly systems that send everything to the landfill or dumpsites.

He says when waste is handled correctly, our roads last longer, our communities are safer, and the financial burden on government is reduced.

He adds that this is not just an environmental concern, it is an economic and public safety concern.

PRF believes that the FRA’s findings should serve as a strong reminder that Fiji needs long-term, proper waste management solutions and not temporary fixes.

The Foundation says it remains committed to advancing inclusive and structured recycling programs and looks forward to working with all stakeholders to build safer and sustainable communities across the country.