The Pacific Recycling Foundation Founder and Director, Mr.
Amitesh Deo,
Area General Manager Tanoa Hotels, Mr. Narend Kumar,
Paradise Beverages Limited General Manager, Mike Spencer,
Chief Operating Officer for Tourism Fiji, Leigh Howard,
Representatives of various resorts and hotels from around Fiji,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen.
Before I proceed further, I acknowledge the traditional custodians of the lands where we now stand.
Sawaieke na Vi-Bulou na Taukei Na Ua,
Betoraurau, na Viyagwane na Jui Sabeto.
Good morning and thank you all for being here. It is truly a privilege to stand before such dedicated professionals, all united by a shared vision—to lead the Fijian tourism sector towards a future that prioritizes sustainability, environmental responsibility, and innovation.
As key players in the tourism industry, we carry a profound responsibility. Not only do we shape the experiences of visitors who travel from far and wide to witness the beauty of our islands, but we also hold the power to be stewards of our environment. Waste management and recycling are not just operational tasks—they are critical components of protecting our natural resources and preserving the pristine beauty of our nation.
Fiji’s eco-friendly reputation is not just a title we carry lightly. It is a commitment that we must continually strive to uphold. Every step we take towards effective waste management and recycling strengthens our standing on the global stage as a leader in sustainable tourism. By doing so, we contribute to the image of Fiji as a destination where both luxury and environmental responsibility coexist in harmony.
I am proud to say that the Fijian Government is fully committed to supporting these efforts. We recognize the urgency of taking action, which is why we are backing a range of policies and initiatives designed to improve waste management and recycling across the tourism sector. These initiatives are more than just rules to follow; they represent our collective desire to leave behind a legacy of sustainability and responsible stewardship. A legacy that will ensure future generations continue to enjoy the unspoiled beauty of Fiji.
One key platform for this collaborative effort is the Fiji Tourism Recycling Forum. This Forum represents a crucial opportunity for us to come together, share ideas, and address our shared challenges. Waste management and recycling are issues that transcend individual organizations—they require a collective response. By uniting at this Forum, we can explore solutions that have the power to transform our sector and bring about lasting change.
A standout example of innovation in this space is the Lase Vou Program. This program focuses on recovering and recycling used Paradise Beverage glass bottles from resorts and hotels across Fiji. It demonstrates how we can turn waste into opportunity, reducing our environmental impact while promoting sustainable practices. Lase Vou is not just a solution—it is a symbol of what can be achieved when creativity, commitment, and collaboration come together.
However, our efforts cannot stop at discussion. I urge all resort and hotel operators to take an active role in these efforts. Engage fully in today’s discussions and commit to taking tangible steps towards improving your recycling and waste management practices. Accountability and continuous improvement are critical. By striving for excellence in waste management, we not only protect our environment but also strengthen our industry’s commitment to sustainability.
This Forum is not just an isolated event. It marks the beginning of long-term partnerships, partnerships that will allow us to collectively pursue our sustainability goals. Today is about setting the foundation for ongoing collaboration, where stakeholders work hand-in-hand to drive progress and innovation in waste management and recycling.
In conclusion, I want to reaffirm the Fijian Government’s unwavering support for initiatives such as the Fiji Tourism Recycling Forum and the Lase Vou Program. Together, we have the power to make a difference. Our actions today will shape the future of Fiji’s tourism industry, and I have no doubt that by working together, we will continue to set the standard for sustainable tourism worldwide.
Let us seize this opportunity, be the leaders of change, and inspire others to follow in our footsteps.
Thank you, and I look forward to the productive discussions and positive outcomes we will achieve together today.