The Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) is urging faith-based organizations across Fiji to take a more active role in promoting recycling and responsible waste management. Recognizing their influential ability to shape community values and behaviors, these religious institutions are seen as pivotal leverage points for inducing positive environmental changes.
PRF founder Amitesh Deo noted the profound impact faith organizations have within society, stating, “They shape values, guide behavior, and unite communities.” He emphasized that implementing responsible waste management practices in these groups could transform technical solutions into moral imperatives that reflect community-driven actions.
In Fiji, religious gatherings have dual roles—they not only unite large audiences but also promote social cohesion. The PRF believes these events, which include communal meals, celebrations, and significant religious functions, offer critical opportunities to model responsible waste management behaviors and advocate for environmental stewardship.
Deo pointed out the necessity of reshaping waste management as a primary national development issue rather than an afterthought, cautioning that neglecting it could lead to harmful consequences for public health, tourism, and climate resilience. “Everyone has a role to play, including faith communities,” he urged.
A major milestone highlighted this commitment with the recent launch of Phase 2 of the Circular Pacific Plastics (CPP) Project at St. Pius X Parish in Raiwaqa, Suva. This initiative serves as a prime example of how faith-based environments can effectively promote recycling education and structured plastic recovery. “The launch at St Pius X Parish shows that religious institutions can lead by example and become platforms for advocacy, education, and long-term behavior change,” Deo remarked.
Looking forward, the PRF plans to engage more faith-based organizations and organize a VAKA Forum involving religious leaders to facilitate dialogue and actionable steps towards enhancing recycling practices and environmental accountability. Although the initiative mainly targets faith communities, the PRF asserts that sustainable waste management is a shared responsibility that extends to all large gatherings, such as sporting events, cultural activities, and other community functions.
By emphasizing the unique role of faith organizations in environmental advocacy, there is a promising vision for a society that becomes more environmentally aware, grounded in collective values and community action.