Fiji yesterday became the first country in the world to formally mark Global Recycling Day with a landmark event celebrating the resilience and contributions of grassroot recyclers.
Officiating at the event, Minister for iTaukei Affairs, Culture, Heritage and Arts, Ifereimi Vasu highlighted the urgent need for collective action on waste management and recognition of grassroots recyclers.
“Protecting our environment requires collective responsibility and sustained action. Materials that are discarded should not simply be viewed as rubbish,” Mr Vasu said.
“When managed responsibly, they become valuable resources that support innovation, generate livelihoods, and strengthen sustainable economic growth.”
Mr Vasu emphasised the contribution of grassroots recyclers.
“We recognise not only the waste stream but also the human stream, the recyclers who dedicate perseverance and innovation to building a greener and more resilient Fiji.”
He called on citizens, communities, and the private sector to move beyond awareness and toward practical action in waste management, linking recycling to climate resilience, economic opportunity, and social inclusion.
The celebration, organised by the Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF), also launched the I Recycle program, making Ratu Sukuna Park the first recreational area in Fiji and the region to implement a structured recycling system.
Suva City Council co-signed a recycling strategy with PRF, reinforcing municipal collaboration.
PRF founder Amitesh Deo noted that for too long, grassroots recyclers had worked in the shadows.
“Today is about bringing them to the forefront and recognising their contribution,” he said.
The signing of the Declaration of Resilience and Partnerships symbolised a unified national commitment to sustainable and inclusive waste management.
“Every citizen, every sector, has a role to play.
“When we recycle responsibly, we safeguard our environment, our economy, and the future of our children.”
The event was held at Ratu Sukuna Park in Suva.
