PRF raises growing public concern over proposed Vuda Waste-to-Energy project

Growing concern and anxiety are being raised by members of the public over the proposed Waste-to-Energy project at Vuda Point, with the Pacific Recycling Foundation confirming it is receiving direct feedback from affected communities.

PRF says that over the past week, it has been contacted directly by community members from Vuda who have raised concerns about the potential environmental, health, and social impacts of the proposed development.

PRF Founder Amitesh Deo says these concerns must not be dismissed or overlooked, particularly as the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is currently under public review.

Deo says that as an organisation working closely with communities and those on the frontline of Fiji’s waste crisis, they continue to receive genuine concerns from people worried about what the project could mean for their future.

He adds that these are real people, real families, and real communities who feel uncertain about what lies ahead.

PRF formally submitted its position to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change a few weeks ago, outlining its concerns regarding the proposed development.

Deo reiterates that PRF’s position is based on several key considerations, including the risk of recyclable materials being diverted into the plant under Fiji’s current mixed waste system, potential long-term environmental and public health impacts, and the likelihood of the project undermining recycling efforts while affecting the livelihoods of collection pillars of recycling.

PRF also notes recent reports indicating that a similar proposal by the same developer was not approved by the Australian Government, raising important questions, particularly in the context of implementation in Fiji.

Deo is calling on decision-makers to ensure that the voices of the people are respected and reflected in any final decisions regarding the project.

He says national development and progress cannot come at the cost of overlooking the concerns of the people, adding that consultation processes should not be treated as a formality.

Deo says when consistent concerns and feedback are raised, they should be carefully considered in shaping the direction of the proposed project.

PRF also expresses concern about recent remarks attributed to the proposed developer describing opposition as coming from “a few selfish people”.

Deo stresses that communities and organisations raising concerns are doing so out of a genuine responsibility to protect their environment, health, and livelihoods. He says these are not selfish positions but legitimate and important perspectives that deserve respect.

He adds that dismissing such concerns risks undermining public trust and does not contribute to the constructive and inclusive dialogue required for a project of this scale.

Deo reiterates that Fiji’s waste management challenges are real and urgent, but solutions must be grounded in respect, transparency, and alignment with the country’s social, environmental, and economic realities.

PRF also cautions against the growing tendency to glorify billionaires or large foreign investors in national development discussions, as though financial capacity alone guarantees the right solutions.

Deo emphasises that being a billionaire or having access to large amounts of capital does not automatically mean the solutions being proposed are suitable for Fiji.

He adds that decisions of this magnitude must be based on evidence, context, and the long-term wellbeing of people and the environment, not on the assumption that wealth alone brings the best outcomes.

PRF is urging all stakeholders, including the Government and project developers, to ensure that the ongoing EIA review process remains transparent, inclusive, and responsive to public feedback.

The Foundation stresses that the people of Vuda, and Fijians more broadly, deserve confidence that their voices matter and that decisions made today will not compromise their health, environment, or livelihoods in the future.

Deo also confirms that PRF is in ongoing discussions with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change and is working towards establishing regular monthly meetings to address this issue and other key waste management and environmental concerns as part of a more coordinated and solutions-focused approach moving forward.