The Pacific Recycling Foundation is calling for transparency on how recycling will be prioritised under the proposed Waste-to-Energy project at Vuda Point.
PRF Founder Amitesh Deo warns that without strong safeguards, the project could undermine recycling, threaten livelihoods, and lock Fiji into long-term environmental, social, and health risks.
Deo says recycling must be the foundation of Fiji’s waste management system, and any waste-to-energy project must complement recycling, not compete with or replace it.
He says with recycling rates already extremely low in Fiji, diverting recyclable materials into energy recovery would be a step backwards.
Deo says international experience shows that energy-from-waste facilities can suppress recycling growth if they are not strictly limited to residual waste only, particularly in small island developing states like Fiji.
He says PRF is seeking clarity on what types of waste the proposed facility will process, including whether it will handle municipal waste, plastics, organics, or industrial waste.
Deo adds that it is critical the facility is restricted to residual waste only, after all recyclable and compostable materials have been removed.
He warns that under Fiji’s current system, where most waste is collected as mixed waste, there is a high risk recyclables could be fed into the plant just to keep it operating over the long term.
PRF also raised concerns about potential health and environmental risks linked to waste incineration, including air pollution, water pollution, odour, noise, and vibration impacts on nearby communities.
Deo says meaningful consultation has not taken place with organisations already working in the waste management and recycling sector, including grassroots recyclers.
He is calling for public consultations to be inclusive, transparent, and meaningful, with communities provided clear and balanced information on both the benefits and risks of waste-to-energy.
PRF has reiterated that recycling must come first, and any waste-to-energy solution for Fiji must protect livelihoods and align with the country’s long-term environmental, social, and economic wellbeing.
