Bringing Hope and Protection: PRF’s Christmas PPE Drive for Collection Pillars of Recycling

Today marked a significant stride in the protection and welfare of the unsung heroes in waste management.

The Pacific Recycling Foundation, in partnership with 4 R Electrical & General Contractors Limited, carried out an initiative aimed at strengthening safety measures for close to 100 Collection Pillars of Recycling (CPR) involved in informal waste-picking in Ba.

In an act of solidarity and commitment, these dedicated Collection Pillars of Recycling, deeply entrenched in informal waste collection, received a comprehensive set of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) comprising raincoats, gumboots, reflector vests, and hand gloves, a crucial step towards ensuring their safety and well-being while operating in hazardous dumpsite environments.

The Founder of the Pacific Recycling Foundation and CEO of Waste Recyclers Fiji Limited, Mr. Amitesh Deo emphasised the right of every individual involved in waste-picking to operate in a secure environment, highlighting the glaring absence of such provisions nationwide.

“This initiative follows in the wake of PRF’s comprehensive Mapping Exercise of the Waste Collection Sector earlier this year, which revealed an alarming lack of protective gear for CPR across the country,” said Mr. Deo.

Mr. Deo extended his sincere appreciation to 4 R Electrical & General Contractors Limited for their pivotal partnership with PRF, underscoring their significant contribution to enhancing the working conditions and safety measures for the Collection Pillars of Recycling.

Mr. Deo shed light on the growing numbers of CPR in Ba, attributing this surge to multifaceted factors.

He said despite their unwavering dedication, many CPR operate without protective gear due to both unawareness of associated risks and financial constraints.

Recognising the critical need for both equipment and awareness, the PRF Founder stressed the importance of integrating training sessions emphasising the significance of PPE in safeguarding against hazardous materials.

The Managing Director of 4 R Electrical & General Contractors Limited, Mr. Rishi Kumar highlighted the profound impact of supporting these resilient individuals in Ba, particularly during the festive season.

He said this joint effort signifies not just the provision of essential safety gear but a broader commitment to raising awareness and upholding the livelihoods of those reliant on waste-picking.

Meanwhile, PRF extends gratitude to S.N.P for their role in supporting the PPE Drive, generously providing essential reflector vests and hand gloves, and offering discounts significantly contributing to the success of this initiative alongside 4 R Electrical & General Contractors Limited.