Good news for the recycling collection pillars in Lautoka as they received some personal protective equipment from the Pacific Recycling Foundation and Department of Environment.
The protective equipment include gumboots, hand gloves, reflector jackets, raincoats, and face masks.
The Permanent Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Doctor Sivendra Michael says beyond the provision of safety gear, the partnership symbolises a broader commitment to raising awareness and upholding the livelihoods of individuals reliant on collecting recyclables.
Doctor Michael says the collection pillars of recycle plays a vital role in reducing carbon emissions by diverting recyclable materials from dumpsites for recycling purposes.
He says their contribution to mitigating environmental degradation cannot be overstated, and it is imperative that we collectively support their work and recognise them for their invaluable contributions.
PRF Founder, Amitesh Deo emphasised the fundamental right of every individual involved in collecting recyclables to operate in a secure environment.
Deo says many collection pillars of recycle operates without adequate protective gear due to a combination of unawareness regarding associated risks and financial constraints.
He says the provision of essential safety gear through this initiative aims to address these challenges and ensure the safety of all collection pillars of recycle in hazardous dumpsite environments.
He adds the alarming absence of protective provisions nationwide, citing PRF's comprehensive mapping exercise of the Collection Pillars of Recycling conducted last year, which revealed a stark lack of protective gear for CPR across the country.
