Plastic bottles and aluminum cans continue to make up a significant portion of waste in Fiji, an issue that has been observed over the years through assessments carried out by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change. 

In the past six months alone, eight municipal councils have collectively collected more than seven million plastic bottles and aluminum cans. 

Speaking to Fiji One News during the Consultation on the Product Stewardship Scheme and Container Deposit Regulations, Return and Earn representative Dwain Qalovaki described the figure as alarming, particularly given that the collection was carried out over only six months. 

Return and Earn representative Dwain Qalovaki said they have plans to establish recycling centers across the 13 municipalities to process waste materials for export and he notes that legislating such initiative is vital. 

Senior Environment Officer at the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Kritika Raj said they are currently conducting a consultation aiming at regulating the use of containers – providing an opportunity for members of the public to earn from the materials they return. 

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Dr Sivendra Michael said Container Deposit Regulations comes with challenges noting that there is a target recovery rate to be met. 

The proposed measures are expected to strengthen Fiji’s waste management efforts by encouraging the public to return recyclable containers, reducing litter and supporting a more sustainable recycling system. 

BY: LITIA RABUA