Waste management challenges are intensifying across Fiji’s outer islands, with communities seeking sustainable solutions to address the growing problem.
The Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) has noted a significant increase in requests for assistance from islands such as Ovalau, Kadavu, Rotuma, the Lau Group, Taveuni, and Malolo. These communities are urgently seeking interventions to manage escalating waste issues.
In response, PRF is leading the implementation of a comprehensive recycling program in Taveuni, in partnership with GIZ and local organizations, including the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change and the Ministry of Local Government. This initiative is scheduled to commence later this year.
PRF Founder Amitesh Deo emphasized the critical need for effective waste management frameworks beyond Viti Levu. “At present, there is minimal structured support for outer island communities to manage their waste effectively, putting both the environment and livelihoods at significant risk,” he said.
Through PRF’s Look Beyond initiative, co-founder Joseph Inoke is currently in Rotuma conducting baseline assessments and engaging with stakeholders who have been advocating for immediate solutions.
Despite the urgency, PRF is bearing the full cost of these interventions due to a lack of dedicated funding. “The situation in the outer islands is dire. Waste generation is rapidly increasing, and without intervention, much of it will end up in the ocean, leading to devastating environmental and health consequences,” Deo warned.
He called for collective action, stating, “We cannot tackle this crisis alone. We need the collective effort of government ministries, donor agencies, development partners, and the private sector to build sustainable waste management solutions for these communities.”
While PRF has been collaborating with partners to roll out holistic recycling programs across various sectors on Viti Levu, the outer islands remain underserved. Many of these communities lack even the most basic waste disposal options, leading to uncontrolled dumping, pollution, and increased risks to marine ecosystems.
“Without immediate action, the environmental and health risks will continue to escalate, threatening both livelihoods and biodiversity,” Deo cautioned.
PRF is urging government agencies, development partners, and donor organizations to collaborate in addressing this urgent crisis. “Investing in waste management solutions for the outer islands is not just about environmental protection; it’s a fundamental step toward sustainable development, climate resilience, and the wellbeing of these communities,” Deo concluded.