IN an effort to address the waste management crisis in Fiji and the region Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) has announced a collaboration with ANZPAC and University of New South Wales.
The activities are set to rollout between 2025 to 2027.
Reflecting on the announcement in Nadi yesterday, PRF founder and CEO Amitesh Deo said this was more than just a partnership.
“It is a historic moment for grassroots recycling in Fiji and the Pacific,” Mr Deo said.
“The commitment from both the Fijian and Australian governments signals the ‘dawn of a new era’.
“With waste volumes rising and communities at risk, this partnership with UNSW and ANZPAC sets the stage for lasting change.
“For the first time, grassroots recyclers stand at the forefront of an initiative that will redefine waste management in Fiji and across the Pacific. The message is clear: the time for action is now.”
University of New South Wales director, Global Ventures Professor Vinayak Dixit said UNSW was privileged to work with PRF and ANZPAC to bring its distinctive capability in entrepreneurship to foster the innovation ecosystem and startups in the Pacific recycling area.
Senior ANZPAC manager, Angela Mayer said ANZPAC was looking forward to collaborating not just with PRF and UNSW on this partnership but bring the wider industry into the discussion to make these workshop outcomes a reality.
In a statement PRF said they have planned to launch up-cycling projects.
“PRF and ANZPAC will spearhead the expansion of collection and recovery programs across supermarkets, recreational parks, religious institutions, government ministries, and the tourism sector in Fiji and the region,” it said.
“A pilot kerbside collection program for households will also be introduced — a move in strengthening waste recovery at the community level.
“And a robust communications strategy will ensure widespread awareness and active participation in recycling efforts across Fiji and the Pacific.
“In collaboration with UNSW, PRF will develop specialised upcycling solutions tailored to the unique waste challenges of the region.
“This partnership will also introduce capacity-building programs and knowledge-sharing initiatives.”
