Pacific Recycling Foundation Calls for Environmentally Responsible Practices During Krishna Janmashtami Celebrations

As Hindus celebrate Krishna Janmashtami, the Pacific Recycling Foundation is urging the public to ensure that traditional rituals, such as visarjan (immersion), are carried out in a way that protects our oceans and environment.

Throwing plastics and other harmful materials into the sea after religious festivals remains a serious environmental concern in Fiji. Such practices contribute to ocean pollution, endanger marine life, disrupt ecosystems, and can also pose risks to human health.

PRF Founder, Amitesh Deo, said that this is an opportune time to embrace more sustainable ways of celebrating.

“This is a plea to all religious groups participating in visarjan following the celebrations this weekend to be vigilant about the materials they immerse. Items like plastics and other non-biodegradable materials should never end up in our oceans,” said Deo.

He said there are now proper procedures for the disposal of religious items in Suva, but this is not the case everywhere, hence PRF’s call for greater awareness and consistent action.”

“We are already facing huge waste management challenges in Fiji, and there needs to be a shift in mindset on how we conduct these important cultural and religious traditions.”

Deo also called on religious leaders to use their influence to advocate environmentally responsible practices within their communities.

“Religious leaders have a powerful voice, and incorporating messages about environmental protection into religious practices has become an absolute need,” Deo said.

“Our oceans and the environment are a source of life, food, and livelihoods. Protecting them should be part of our devotion,” Deo concluded.