SINCE its launch in Lautoka last month, the Circular Pacific Plastics Project has moved quickly towards addressing the long-neglected issue of soft plastic pollution in Fiji.
The ground-breaking initiative, spearheaded by Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) in partnership with the ANZPAC Plastics Pact and supported by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO), introduced a dual-system approach, engaging both businesses (B2B) and consumers (B2C) to tackle the challenge head-on.
PRF founder Amitesh Deo said under the business-to-business (B2B) component, the project had diverted about 30,500 soft plastics from the Naboro Landfill and dump site.
“The business-to-consumer (B2C) component, utilising a singular bin installed at Extra Supermarket in Lautoka, has diverted approximately 1000 soft plastics in just five weeks,” Mr Deo said.
“These figures are a promising start, and they underline the power of collective action to address one of Fiji’s most pressing environmental challenges.”
Mr Deo said while challenges remained, community involvement had demonstrated the potential of this initiative.
He said the project had faced hurdles in raising awareness, encouraging greater consumer participation and minimising contamination of recyclables.
“There are those who do not use the recycling bins properly and question why programs like these are needed.
“Ironically, these are often the same voices calling for solutions to pollution. It is time to move beyond talk and take meaningful action.
“We encourage everyone to join this effort by simply separating soft plastics from general waste and using the bins provided.”
PRF plans to expand the initiative to Suva in its ongoing partnership with Extra Supermarket. The expansion aims to provide more opportunities for consumers to recycle soft plastics.
“The foundation looks forward to expanding its impact, fostering behavioural change and creating a sustainable Fiji.”
