The Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) has urged the Government to ensure policy commitments match implementation to tackle Fiji’s growing waste management crisis.
Speaking at the VAKA Forum, PRF founder Amitesh Deo warned contradictions between government statements and actions undermine progress.
“Sometimes we’re saying something else, sometimes we meet and talk about something else, but something else totally different happens,” he said.
“If the contradiction doesn’t stop, we will continue to have the issues around waste management as a crisis.
He called for strong collaboration between government, grassroots recyclers, academics, and private sector partners.
“We are able to pass on our daily struggles and sensitise the members of parliament on what a solution model can look like we have agreed to meet one year later with the feasibility on hand.
Mr Deo stressed a comprehensive approach combining social justice, environmental stewardship, and economic opportunity.
“We want to come out of the waste management crisis in a holistic and comprehensive way — green jobs as we move forward do no harm.
He said Fiji could develop sustainable, scalable solutions that ensure dignity for grassroots recyclers while strengthening the country’s environmental and economic resilience.
