The Pacific Recycling Foundation today marked Global Recycling Day 2026 with a landmark national event at Ratu Sukuna Park, bringing together government leaders, development partners, private sector stakeholders, academics and grassroots recyclers to celebrate resilience, recognition and progress in Fiji’s recycling sector.
Held under the national theme “Grassroots Recyclers’ Journey: Peaks, Valleys and Resilience,” the event placed a strong spotlight on the lived experiences of Fiji’s grassroots recyclers who have sustained recycling efforts across the country for decades, often with little recognition.
PRF Founder, Amitesh Deo reflected on the multi-decade journey of grassroots recyclers and the urgent need to ensure that national systems are built on principles of dignity, inclusion and fairness.
Deo says for too long, grassroots recyclers have worked in the shadows of their waste management systems.
He says today is about bringing them to the forefront, recognising their contribution and ensuring that as they build systems, we do not leave people behind.
A key highlight of the event was the official launch of the "I Recycle Programme" at Ratu Sukuna Park, making it the first recreational park in Fiji and the region to implement a comprehensive, structured recycling system.
Chair of the Suva City Council Special Administrators, Tevita Boseiwaqa, also announced the Council’s Recycling Strategy in partnership with PRF, which was formally co-signed during the event, marking a significant step toward strengthening municipal waste management systems in Suva.
Another major highlight saw the Chief Guest sign the Declaration of Resilience and Partnerships, symbolising a national commitment to unite grassroots recyclers, government, and stakeholders toward a more inclusive and sustainable waste management system.
The event was officiated by the Minister for iTaukei Affairs, Culture, Heritage and Arts, Ifereimi Vasu and Special Guest, Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, Lenora Qereqeretabua, who reaffirmed Government’s commitment to strengthening proper waste management systems through inclusive policies, regulatory reform, and national initiatives.
The celebration is an initiative of PRF in partnership with Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Suva City Council, Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Pacific Energy, Nestle Fiji, Tourism Fiji and ANZPAC, and support partners such as R C Manubhai & Co Ltd, Pure Fiji, Vivid Media and The Hot Bread Kitchen.
