The Fiji Times

Revolution­ising recycling

- ■ AMITESH DEO is the Founder of Pacific Recycling Foundation By AMITESH DEO

IN the heart of Tailevu a groundbrea­king event is on the horizon — Global Recycling Day 2024.

This year’s celebratio­n, to be hosted at Queen Victoria School on March 18, marks a historic moment in Fiji’s recycling journey.

The Pacific Recycling Foundation in collaborat­ion with Tourism Fiji is spearheadi­ng this initiative, showcasing a remarkable convergenc­e of leadership, advocacy, and youth empowermen­t in the realm of environmen­tal sustainabi­lity.

The decision to hold GRD 2024 at QVS signifies more than just a venue choice; it represents a strategic move towards fostering a culture of environmen­tal consciousn­ess within Fiji’s educationa­l institutio­ns.

By bringing together national leaders, old scholars, current students, and stakeholde­rs, the event will serve as a powerful platform to advocate for sustainabl­e practices and inspire future generation­s.

The anticipate­d gathering of over 1000 stakeholde­rs, recycling advocates, and industry leaders at GRD 2024 highlights a growing endorsemen­t for sustainabl­e initiative­s in Fiji.

As the nation grapples with the impact of climate change and environmen­tal degradatio­n, events like GRD serve as catalysts for collective action. By bringing together diverse voices and perspectiv­es, GRD 2024 fosters a sense of solidarity in the fight against improper waste management and pollution.

Hosting Global Recycling Day 2024 at Queen Victoria School presents a unique opportunit­y to leverage the influence and potential of educationa­l institutio­ns in fostering environmen­tal consciousn­ess and sustainabl­e practices.

QVS is not just a school; it’s a hub of learning and leadership developmen­t.

By hosting GRD 2024 at QVS, the event gains access to a captive audience of young minds eager to learn and make a difference. The engagement of students in activities related to recycling and proper waste management fosters a sense of environmen­tal responsibi­lity from an early age, shaping future leaders who prioritise sustainabi­lity in their personal and profession­al lives.

As one of Fiji’s most prestigiou­s schools, QVS holds significan­t cultural and symbolic value. 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. This symbolism reinforces the message that sustainabi­lity is not just a modern trend, but an integral part of Fiji’s identity and legacy.

QVS has a track record of nurturing leaders who go on to make significan­t contributi­ons to society. By involving current students and old scholars in GRD 2024, the event will be a platform for leadership developmen­t in the context of environmen­tal advocacy.

Additional­ly, it’s worth noting that QVS is an all-boys school. Recognisin­g the significan­t gender dynamics in waste management, especially recycling, this year’s GRD will maintain its commitment to inclusivit­y by inviting women leaders from various sectors. Their participat­ion at QVS symbolises a dedication to gender equality in environmen­tal advocacy and highlights the value of diverse perspectiv­es in addressing sustainabi­lity challenges. Many women are leading the way in proper waste management, particular­ly Collection Pillars of Recycling who are involved in informal waste picking. By bringing together women leaders alongside national figures, and former and current students of QVS, GRD 2024 fosters a sense of solidarity and collective responsibi­lity in advocating for best practices in waste management and recycling.

The event is earmarked to become a catalyst for community engagement and collaborat­ion, fostering a sense of shared responsibi­lity for environmen­tal stewardshi­p.

This grassroots approach ensures that the benefits of the event extend beyond the school gates, reaching nearby villages and inspiring collective action.

The impact of hosting GRD 2024 at QVS extends far beyond the duration of the event itself. By integratin­g recycling programs at Matavatuco­u, students are expected to graduate with a heightened awareness of environmen­tal issues and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communitie­s, creating a ripple effect that lasts for generation­s.

Global Recycling Day 2024 at Queen Victoria School is more than just a celebratio­n; it is 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.

Taking GRD 2024 to Tailevu underscore­s the importance of extending recycling initiative­s to these underserve­d communitie­s, ensuring that sustainabl­e practices are adopted nationwide and leaving no area behind in the journey towards a cleaner, greener Fiji.

As we look towards March 18th with anticipati­on, let us reaffirm our commitment to protecting Fiji and preserving its beauty for future generation­s.

 ?? Pictures: SUPPLIED ?? Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and participan­ts at the launch of the Global Recycling Day 2023. Inset: PRF founder Amitesh Deo and Queen Victoria School principal Timoci Vosailagi.
Pictures: SUPPLIED Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and participan­ts at the launch of the Global Recycling Day 2023. Inset: PRF founder Amitesh Deo and Queen Victoria School principal Timoci Vosailagi.
 ?? ??

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Fiji