PRF’s research officer graduates with honours

It was a proud moment for Pacific Recycling Foundation’s Research Officer, Vinil Vivek Prasad who graduated with a Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical) with Honours from the Fiji National University.

Prasad started working as a part-time Research Officer at PRF and Waste Recyclers Fiji Limited during his final year of studies where his research project dealt with upcycling PET bottles into construction blocks.

His final year project was based on solid waste management where he designed a machine system from scrap materials. The machine was capable of repurposing PET bottles into liquid form which is also referred to as biofuel.

According to Prasad, the purpose of this project was to promote sustainable development as well as proper waste management.

23-year-old Prasad is currently involved in a few research projects at PRF which are aimed at finding solutions and ideas for sustainable recycling and upcycling projects for Fiji and the region, and the collection of recyclables from remote and maritime areas.

Prasad said he is passionate about innovation and problem-solving and is eager to embark on projects that address the challenges of waste management and recycling, with the aim of making a positive impact on the environment and the communities that rely on it.

“As a Research Officer at Pacific Recycling Foundation, I have the privilege of working alongside a dedicated team of individuals who are committed to improving waste management and empowering vulnerable communities involved in informal waste picking. I am proud to be a part of this movement,” said Prasad.

PRF’s Founder and CEO of WRFL, Mr. Amitesh Deo said they are proud of Prasad’s achievements, passion, and dedication to the recycling and waste management sector.

He said this sector needs the commitment of our young generation, and Prasad is definitely a role model to many who have intentions of pursuing a career in this field and contributing to the waste management sector and Fiji as a whole.

Mr. Deo said Prasad will also play an integral role in their efforts to move the Collection Pillars of Recycling into the formal sector through green jobs.