Pacific Recycling Foundation Founder Amitesh Deo says the theme was chosen to highlight the real journey of grassroots recyclers — not only in Fiji, but across the Pacific and globally.
Deo says the journey feels like climbing a mountain, with both peaks and valleys stressing that recyclers experience many ups and downs as they work at community level.
He says Global Recycling Day is vital because the voices of grassroots recyclers were previously unheard adding that the day provides a platform to raise their concerns and highlight the challenges faced by those working in both the formal and informal recycling sectors.
Deo also says the day is meaningful as it reminds everyone that while people have the right to a clean environment, they also have a responsibility to protect it.
He stresses the campaign began two weeks ago at the University of New South Wales, where academics agreed to work with grassroots groups to improve systems and solutions.
Deo adds that on the 16th of March, Members of Parliament and Permanent Secretaries will meet to ensure grassroots ideas and solutions reach national decision-makers.
He confirms that Global Recycling Day will be officially marked on the 18th of March.
Meanwhile, Director for Tourism for Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism, and Transport in Fiji Jacinta Lal says protecting the environment is a shared responsibility with the Pacific Recycling Foundation.
Insert: On community driven country 2nd MarchLal says that 30 to 40 years ago, tourism development plans focused heavily on infrastructure such as hotels and airports, with less emphasis on waste management and climate change.
She adds that the world has changed significantly, and reducing waste is now critical, as it has a major impact on tourism.
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