Global Recycling Day Celebrations to Be Held at Queen Victoria School
The Pacific Recycling Foundation is thrilled to announce that this year’s Global Recycling Day (GRD) celebrations, set to take place on March 18th, will be held at Queen Victoria School (QVS) in Tailevu.
This marks the first time in history that such a significant celebration will be staged within a school environment, symbolising a pivotal moment in Fiji’s environmental consciousness.
The Founder of PRF and CEO of Waste Recyclers Fiji Limited, Mr. Amitesh Deo expressed profound gratitude towards the management of QVS and the Ministry of Education for their unwavering support and belief in PRF’s mission.
He emphasised the historical significance of GRD 2024 at QVS, highlighting the convergence of national leaders, ex-scholars, current students, and stakeholders in solidarity for Fiji’s environment and waste management.
“Queen Victoria School is revered for nurturing some of Fiji’s most influential leaders across various sectors. GRD 2024 will serve as a platform for these leaders, alongside passionate advocates, and young minds, to advocate the cause of recycling and inspire sustainable practices for future generations,” stated Mr. Deo.
The cornerstone of GRD 2024 at QVS will be the launch of a recycling program designed to revolutionise the mindset and behaviour towards recycling at Matavatucou.
Mr. Deo said further details about this program will be unveiled during the event.
The Principal of QVS, Mr. Timoci Vosailagi, expressed gratitude to PRF for bringing the celebrations to Queen Victoria School.
“We are grateful to PRF for choosing Queen Victoria School as the host for Global Recycling Day. This opportunity allows us to showcase our commitment to environmental sustainability and contribute to the recycling movement.”
He emphasised the importance of instilling best practices in recycling and waste management among the school’s young leaders.
With an anticipated gathering of over 1,000 stakeholders, recycling advocates, and industry leaders, this year’s Global Recycling Day celebrations promise to be a momentous occasion.
The GRD celebration is an initiative of PRF in partnership with Tourism Fiji.
Further announcements will be made during an upcoming press conference.
PRF and Partners unveil theme and national campaigns for 2024 Global Recycling Day
Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) is thrilled to announce the Global Recycling Day 2024 theme, alongside two significant national campaigns.
GRD celebration, an initiative of PRF and Waste Recyclers Fiji Limited in collaboration with Tourism Fiji, Swire Shipping, Pacific Energy, Fiji National University, Nestle Fiji, and R.C Manubhai is set to take place at Queen Victoria School on 18th March.
Themed “Keeping Promises, A Commitment to Sustainability,” GRD 2024 underscores the collective responsibility to preserve our planet for future generations.
PRF Founder, Mr. Amitesh Deo said the GRD 2024 theme, embodies collective responsibility to safeguard our planet for future generations and underscores their collective dedication to environmental stewardship.
This is not merely a local endeavour but a global call to action for leaders worldwide. Together, let’s uphold our promises and take meaningful steps towards a greener, more sustainable future,” emphasised Mr. Deo.
He said this year’s initiative marks a historic milestone as national leaders will converge in solidarity to address Fiji’s environmental challenges and advocate for sustainable waste management practices.
Mr. Deo revealed the Prime Minister, Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka will return to officiate at this year’s event along with esteemed leaders who are former scholars of Queen Victoria School and women leaders from various sectors.
“Our leaders from various spaces will converge at QVS on 18th March as recycling and environment advocates, standing in solidarity and rallying support for Fiji’s recycling initiatives and inspiring future generations of leaders.
During a major press conference at Malhana Cloud Kitchen Restaurant today, PRF and its partners also launched two major national campaigns:
National Lapel Pin Campaign – Join the Recycling Movement: Individuals can demonstrate solidarity with the recycling movement by wearing a PIN. Proceeds from the campaign will support PRF’s efforts to enhance recycling programs across Fiji, including outreach to outer islands and maritime areas most vulnerable to the adverse effects of improper waste disposal.
Empower the nation: Recycle, curb plastic waste: Encouraging nationwide participation to transition towards recycling to combat plastic waste and promote eco-friendly alternatives.
Brent Hill, CEO of Tourism Fiji, stated, “sustainable tourism is critical for our future. We must keep Fiji clean and emphasise sustainability. Global Recycling Day allows us to reassess what works and what doesn’t, identifying actions that truly make a difference. We appreciate the support of our leaders and emphasise that it’s not just Tourism Fiji’s or the government’s responsibility – it’s every Fijians.”
Hill added that “our main goal, in collaboration with the Pacific Recycling Foundation, is to implement multiple I-Recycle Hub sites across Wailoaloa, Natadola, various hotels within our industry and our communities. This initiative was sparked by a call to action from Rosie Holidays during the Fiji Tourism Convention held in December last year, and we’re grateful for the industry’s support.”
As the nation grapples with the impact of climate change and environmental degradation, events like Global Recycling Day serve as catalysts for collective action – Deo
Global Recycling Day 2024 saw over 1,000 stakeholders, recycling advocates, and industry leaders unite at Queen Victoria School in Tailevu for a sustainable tomorrow.
This marked a historic moment in Fiji’s recycling history and represented a strategic move towards fostering a culture of environmental consciousness within Fiji’s educational institutions.
The Pacific Recycling Foundation in collaboration with Tourism Fiji, Swire Shipping, Pacific Energy, Fiji National University, Nestle, R.C. Manubhai, Department of Environment and support partners Goodman Fielder, Pure Fiji and TFL spearheaded an initiative that showcased a remarkable convergence of leadership, advocacy, and youth empowerment in the realm of environmental sustainability.
PRF Founder, Mr. Amitesh Deo said by bringing together national leaders, old scholars, current students, and stakeholders, the event served as a powerful platform to advocate for sustainable practices and inspire future generations.
“As the nation grapples with the impact of climate change and environmental degradation, events like Global Recycling Day serve as catalysts for collective action,” said Mr. Deo.
“By bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, GRD 2024 fostered a sense of solidarity in the fight against improper waste management and pollution.”
PRF Founder said GRD’s 2024 official theme “Keeping Promises: A Commitment to Sustainability” was chosen to recommit that as individuals, as organisations, and as a nation – when we pledge support to strategies and concepts aimed at bringing positive impact to our environment and our people (Our Promises), we should keep these commitments.
Mr. Deo said by choosing QVS as the venue for GRD 2024, the event pays homage to Fiji’s heritage while also signalling a shift towards a more environmentally conscious future.
“QVS is now the fourth implementing site for our Recycling on the Go (ROG) Ambassadors program and this symbolises the engagement of students in activities related to recycling and proper waste management while fostering a sense of environmental responsibility from an early age, shaping future leaders who prioritise sustainability in their personal and professional lives.”
He said GRD 2024 was a testament to Fiji’s unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability.
“By uniting leaders, advocates, and youth in a shared vision for a cleaner, greener future, GRD 2024 embodies the spirit of collaboration and resilience that defines Fiji’s environmental journey.”
Partnership Announcements
PRF & Tourism Fiji
As the countdown begins for this year’s Global Recycling Day (GRD) on March 18, 2024, the Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) proudly reaffirmed its partnership with Tourism Fiji, marking the continuation of their pivotal collaboration aimed at spearheading advancements in sustainable waste management practices, particularly recycling.
Building upon the success of their collaboration for last year’s GRD, PRF, and Tourism Fiji are back for the second consecutive year, fortified by their shared commitment to drive advocacy to action.
Tourism Fiji COO, Mr. Leigh Howard said that “as Fiji emerges as a premier destination, known for its pristine and untouched nature, our commitment lies in ensuring that growth aligns with sustainability. Our mission is to showcase Fiji’s natural beauty, culture, and authenticity, while actively addressing crucial issues such as climate change inclusively.”
On this Global Recycling Day, as we come together to explore waste management solutions, Tourism Fiji emphasises a focus on a holistic approach to sustainable tourism.
“One of the key objectives together with Pacific Recycling Foundation is to roll out several I-Recycle Hub sites across Wailoaloa, Natadola, and several hotels within our industry. This initiative stemmed from a call to action by Rosie Holidays during the National Convention forum held last month and we are thankful for their support as well,” he added.
Howard expressed Tourism Fiji’s support for the Pacific Recycling Foundation’s Global Recycling Day campaign, urging not only recycling within the tourism industry but also in our communities, corporate businesses, and educational institutions.
The Founder of the Pacific Recycling Foundation, Mr. Amitesh Deo expressed deep appreciation for Tourism Fiji’s steadfast dedication and commitment to PRF’s strategies aimed at promoting environmental stewardship and advancing recycling initiatives.
“Tourism Fiji remains a key ally in our mission to instill a culture of responsible waste management, particularly crucial within the tourism industry,” stated Mr. Deo.
He said the collaborative efforts between PRF and Tourism Fiji underscore a shared commitment to driving positive change in waste management practices, fostering a cleaner, greener environment that is essential for the sustainability of Fiji’s tourism industry.
Around 1,000 stakeholders, recycling and environmental advocates, and industry leaders are expected to converge at this year’s Global Recycling Day festivities. Further announcements and details will be revealed during an upcoming press conference.
PRF & QVS
The Pacific Recycling Foundation is thrilled to announce that this year’s Global Recycling Day (GRD) celebrations, set to take place on March 18th, will be held at Queen Victoria School (QVS) in Tailevu.
This marks the first time in history that such a significant celebration will be staged within a school environment, symbolising a pivotal moment in Fiji’s environmental consciousness.
The Founder of PRF and CEO of Waste Recyclers Fiji Limited, Mr. Amitesh Deo expressed profound gratitude towards the management of QVS and the Ministry of Education for their unwavering support and belief in PRF’s mission.
He emphasised the historical significance of GRD 2024 at QVS, highlighting the convergence of national leaders, ex-scholars, current students, and stakeholders in solidarity for Fiji’s environment and waste management.
“Queen Victoria School is revered for nurturing some of Fiji’s most influential leaders across various sectors. GRD 2024 will serve as a platform for these leaders, alongside passionate advocates, and young minds, to advocate the cause of recycling and inspire sustainable practices for future generations,” stated Mr. Deo.
The cornerstone of GRD 2024 at QVS will be the launch of a recycling program designed to revolutionise the mindset and behaviour towards recycling at Matavatucou.
Mr. Deo said further details about this program will be unveiled during the event.
The Principal of QVS, Mr. Timoci Vosailagi, expressed gratitude to PRF for bringing the celebrations to Queen Victoria School.
“We are grateful to PRF for choosing Queen Victoria School as the host for Global Recycling Day. This opportunity allows us to showcase our commitment to environmental sustainability and contribute to the recycling movement.”
He emphasised the importance of instilling best practices in recycling and waste management among the school’s young leaders.
With an anticipated gathering of over 1,000 stakeholders, recycling advocates, and industry leaders, this year’s Global Recycling Day celebrations promise to be a momentous occasion.
The GRD celebration is an initiative of PRF in partnership with Tourism Fiji.
Further announcements will be made during an upcoming press conference.
PRF & R.C. Manubhai
The Pacific Recycling Foundation is thrilled to announce that it has once again partnered with R.C. Manubhai & Co Pte Ltd just weeks before the 2024 Global Recycling Day (GRD) which is scheduled to take place on March 18th at Queen Victoria School.
Building upon the success of their collaboration for last year’s GRD, PRF, and R.C. Manubhai & Co Pte Ltd are back with a startegic alliance that goes beyond conventional partnerships.
During an MoU signing, PRF Founder, Mr. Amitesh Deo acknowledged R.C. Manubhai & Co Pte Ltd for its unwavering support.
He stated that R.C. Manubhai & Co Pte Ltd has been an organisation that the Foundation can count on when it comes to driving advocacy to action.
“When we were initially starting the GRD work and awareness around that, it was a difficult journey, we didn’t have resources, or the support structure to talk about these issues and there was always the element of pushback and during those days certain organisations came forward and R.C. Manubhai was one of them,” said Mr. Deo.
The PRF Founder said that the partnership between the Foundation and R.C. Manubhai & Co Pte Ltd was promising in terms of addressing the waste management crisis in Fiji.
Dr. Uppiliappan Gopalan, R.C. Manubhai & Co Pte Ltd Group CEO, stated “Celebrating our partnership with the Pacific Recycling Foundation for the 2024 Global Recycling Day under the theme ‘Keeping Promises: A Commitment to Sustainability,’ we proudly reflect on R.C. Manubhai & Co Pte Ltd’s ESG journey.”
Dr. Uppiliappan added, “From the inception, we’ve embraced Environmental, Social, and Governance principles as integral to our operations. Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond mere rhetoric, its deeply ingrained in our corporate DNA. Through innovative practices and unwavering dedication, we strive to set new standards in responsible business conduct. By committing to these principles and taking concrete actions, individual, and communities can contribute to the collective effort of “Re-Earth” and work towards a more sustainable and resilient planet for future generations. Together with the Pacific Recycling Foundation, we forge ahead, shaping a future where sustainability isn’t a goal – it’s a promise kept for generations to come.”
Themed “Keeping Promises, A Commitment to Sustainability,” GRD 2024 underscores the collective responsibility to preserve our planet for future generations.
“The Prime Minister, Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka will return to officiate at this year’s event along with esteemed leaders who are former scholars of Queen Victoria School and women leaders from various sectors,” Mr. Deo added.
PRF & Nestle (Fiji)
The Pacific Recycling Foundation is proud to announce its partnership with Nestlé Fiji for the 2024 Global Recycling Day celebrations.
Pacific Recycling Foundation Founder, Mr Amitesh Deo said the collaboration signifies the breaking of barriers through a unique and progressive partnership.
“This partnership will bring more meaning to this year’s Global Recycling Day and the work that we continue to carry out,” said Mr Deo.
Mr Deo said it is through partnerships such as this that the Pacific Recycling Foundation will be able to fulfill its vision of creating awareness on the importance of recycling to combat plastic waste and promote eco-friendly alternatives.
“We’ve had prior meetings with Nestlé where discussions were based on working on solutions to help generate pathways for soft plastics and we acknowledge Nestlé for looking at ways to solve the soft plastics problem,” said Mr Deo.
Nestle Fiji General Manager, Mr. Tim Inkster said that collaboration was key to making an impact.
“To address the challenges of soft plastics in the Pacific, we must work together to drive change.
“We’re proud to support the important work of the Foundation, and support efforts towards a sustainable future for soft plastics.
“As we strive to improve collection and recycling systems, we are equally committed to reducing our use of virgin plastic.
“Previously, each individual packet of MAGGI noodles in our multipacks came in a soft plastic outer wrapper. This wrapper has now been replaced with a sticker that holds the individual noodle packs together – and using 16% less plastic.”
Themed “Keeping Promises, A Commitment to Sustainability,” Global Recycling Day 2024 underscores the collective responsibility to preserve our planet for future generations.
“The Prime Minister, Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka will return to officiate at this year’s event along with esteemed leaders who are former scholars of Queen Victoria School and women leaders from various sectors,” Mr. Deo added.
PRF & Swire Shipping
The collaborative efforts between the Foundation and Swire Shipping will allow the enhancement of progressive mindset and behaviour change towards recycling and those involved in this space – Deo
The Pacific Recycling Foundation and Swire Shipping have reaffirmed their partnership for this year’s Global Recycling Day celebrations at Queen Victoria School on March 18th and this collaboration will allow the enhancement of progressive mindset and behaviour change towards recycling and those involved in this space.
PRF and Swire Shipping have been collectively strengthening efforts towards best practices of waste management and recycling through tailor-made programs at the grassroots level, since 2020.
PRF Founder, Mr. Amitesh Deo said Swire Shipping’s commitment to partner for the fourth Global Recycling Day celebrations signifies a shared commitment to environmental sustainability.
Mr. Deo said Swire Shipping has been a longstanding partner for ‘Global Recycling Day’ and ‘Recycling on the Go (ROG) Ambassadors’ program which was piloted at Jai Narayan College in 2022, designed to influence behaviour change in 900 plus students and teachers.
He stated that through the partnership with Swire Shipping, the ROG program was then upscaled to two more schools – Jasper Williams High School and Nadi Sangam Primary School and expanded its reach to over 2,600 students, their families, and communities.
“This year we are proud to upscale again and take the ROG program to Queen Victoria School in Tailevu and we are grateful to have Swire Shipping’s support,” said Mr. Deo.
The PRF Founder said the collaborative efforts between the Foundation and Swire Shipping will continue to drive positive changes in waste management and recycling behaviours.
“PRF and Swire Shipping’s collaboration has grown from strength to strength over the years and we look forward to future collaborations,” Mr. Deo added.
Swire Shipping Regional Manager – Pacific Islands, Mr. Alex Pattison said the Moana Taka Partnership in 2018 taught the company that influencing behavioural change was important for waste management efforts to be successful.
“In 2022, we saw the opportunity materialise in the form of the Recycling on the Go (ROG) Ambassadors program, and how we could be part of efforts to properly educate our younger generation on recycling under the guidance of experts. We then partnered with Waste Recyclers (Fiji) Limited and Pacific Recycling Foundation and invested in this program,” said Mr. Pattison.
Mr. Pattison said as a private-sector company, they will continue to work closely with their partners, as well as seek out or establish effective partnerships with other esteemed organisations while also maintaining close relationships with the Ministry of Education and Department of Environment, to boost in-country recycling and waste management efforts.
“We hope that the success of this collaboration sets a standard for how private-sector companies can act and contribute to sustainability in the education sector.”
The GRD celebrations will be officiated by the Prime Minister, Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka.
PRF & FNU
Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) and Fiji National
University (FNU) Forge Alliance for 2024 Global Recycling Day Celebrations
Pacific Recycling Foundation and Fiji National University proudly announce their partnership for the 2024 Global Recycling Day (GRD) celebrations at Queen Victoria School on March 18th, 2024.
This collaborative effort marks a significant milestone in promoting sustainability and environmental consciousness in Fiji.
This partnership between PRF and FNU exemplifies the shared vision of creating a greener and more sustainable future for Fiji and beyond. Through collaborative efforts and innovative initiatives, both organisations are dedicated to fostering a common future for a Green Fiji.
FNU, a longstanding partner of PRF, has played a pivotal role in advancing the recycling movement in Fiji. Through the implementation of the I Recycle Hub program at two of its campuses, FNU has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship.
Reflecting on the journey towards sustainability, PRF Founder, Mr. Amitesh Deo, expressed gratitude for FNU’s early support.
“When we embarked on the journey of initiating the GRD celebrations a few years ago, laying the groundwork and raising awareness was indeed a formidable challenge. We encountered resistance and obstacles along the way, yet amidst this, FNU stood out as one of the few organisations that extended their hand to support PRF,” said Mr. Deo.
He expressed heartfelt gratitude to FNU for their steadfast partnership during the early days when cooperation and partnership were scarce.
Fiji National University (FNU) Pro-Vice-Chancellor TVET and Sustainability Initiative Chair Dr. Isimeli Tagicakiverata said the University is proud to have partnered with the Pacific Recycling Foundation.
“Fiji National University (FNU) is committed to fostering a greener Fiji through its partnership with the Pacific Recycling Foundation,” stated Dr. Tagicakiverata.
“As part of this commitment, we launched the I-Recycle Hubs project in collaboration with Waste Recyclers Pte Ltd and the Pacific Recycling Foundation. This initiative includes the placement of designated recycling bins at our Natabua and Derrick Campuses.
“The Fiji National University recognises the severe impacts of climate change, experienced both locally and globally. Our vulnerability to this crisis demands urgent action. As a responsible institution, we are committed to decisive mitigation and adaptation measures. Therefore, we declare a climate emergency, underscoring our determination to prioritise sustainability and resilience.
The GRD celebrations will be officiated by the Prime Minister, Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka.
