Grassroots recyclers took centre stage as Fiji marked Global Recycling Day with a first-of-its-kind national event in Suva.
Speaking at the event, Minister for i Taukei Affairs, Culture, Heritage and Arts Ifereimi Vasu said waste should be seen as a resource, not rubbish.
“Protecting our environment requires collective responsibility and sustained action,” Mr Vasu said.
“When managed responsibly, discarded materials can support innovation, create livelihoods and drive sustainable growth.”
He highlighted the often-overlooked contribution of grassroots recyclers.
“We recognise not only the waste stream but also the human stream, the recyclers working to build a greener and more resilient Fiji,” he said.
The event, organised by the Pacific Recycling Foundation, also launched the I Recycle program, with Ratu Sukuna Park becoming the first recreational space in Fiji and the region to adopt a structured recycling system.
