‘Recycling is no longer an option—it is a necessity.’
This was the comment made by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Communications Hon. Manoa Kamikamica at the Global Recycling Day celebration at Churchill Park in Lautoka today (18:03:2025).
DPM Kamikamica said with increasing environmental challenges, urbanisation, and growing consumerism, it was essential to ensure that sustainability remained at the core of the national development agenda.
Organised by the Pacific Recycling Foundation, the event also saw the launch of the “I Recycle” program, which made Churchill Park the first sports facility in Fiji and the region to implement a comprehensive sustainable waste management program.
“This is a groundbreaking achievement that sets a benchmark for other sporting venues, public facilities, and business establishments across the country,” Hon. Kamikamica stated.
DPM Kamikamica urged all sports organisations, public venues, and private sector partners to also integrate sustainable waste management practices into their operations.
“Through the Pacific Recycling Foundation’s ‘Connecting the Dots” strategy, Lautoka has demonstrated how a city can successfully implement structured waste management solutions that benefit everyone.
“I encourage other towns and municipalities to learn from Lautoka’s success.”
He said the government was committed to building a sustainable, resilient, and diversified economy.
“Sustainability and economic development are not mutually exclusive, they must go hand in hand. The government is focused on fostering green businesses and sustainable entrepreneurship to create a balanced approach to economic growth.”
"At the event, DPM Kamikamica also signed a declaration endorsing the Pacific Recycling Foundation's Blueprint to tackle the waste management crisis.
“I ask every Fijian to take personal responsibility in reducing waste, recycling properly, and advocating for a cleaner Fiji. The time for passive discussions is over. We need real action, real commitment, and real change.”