The Tonga Recycle Association (TRA) has launched a new initiative to collect and recycle PET bottles and aluminium cans.
Dubbed ‘Tufi Tanaki Pea Fua’ (Collect, Weigh, and Measure) aims to reduce waste and promote recycling across Tongatapu.
The launch event, held in Kolomotu’a on Saturday, was attended by Hon. Mateni Tapueluelu, Minister for Customs and Revenue who praised the project as a step towards “environmental sustainability and economic growth in Tonga”.
In partnership with Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, the initiative seeks to expand the collection of PET plastics and aluminium cans. Dr. Onuma Yoko, JICA Expert and Chief Advisor for the J-PRISM waste management project, expressed optimism about the program’s impact: “This project will reduce the plastic and aluminium waste going to Tapuhia landfill.”
Ryan Mahoney, Commercial Director for Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, highlighted the importance of collaboration: “Strong partnership is needed to make a difference.” He noted that collected materials are expected to be sent back to Australia for recycling.
As a pilot project in Tongatapu 1 constituency from June to December 2024 collected 2,000 kilograms—approximately 80,000 items—from eight schools. Encouraged by this success, the TRA plans to expand the program to other constituencies.
The TRA President, Saimone Vuki, had said that an estimated 12 million beverage containers, including 4 million PET bottles and aluminium cans, enter Tonga annually. The TRA’s initiative aims to address this influx by promoting recycling and reducing landfill waste.
A logo competition among students in Tongatapu 1 resulted in a winning design by Soakai Malu, a senior student. This design will represent the recycling scheme moving forward.
The TRA was established by two private recycling companies in January 2023 with support from JICA’s J-PRISM 2 project, continues to work towards sustainable waste management solutions in Tonga.
The launch event concluded with a demonstration of a PET processing machine, showcasing the practical steps being taken to manage and recycle waste effectively.
Attending the event were Tongatapu Constituency No. 1 MP Hon. Tevita Puloka and H.E. Mr. INAGAKI Hisao, Ambassador of Japan to Tonga.
