Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka has called on the tourism industry to take greater accountability for waste management, emphasizing that clean environments are essential for Fiji’s appeal and long-term sustainability. Speaking at the Pacific Recycling Foundation’s VAKA Forum, Gavoka pointed out the substantial waste generated by tourism and the added pressure limited landfill space places on local communities.
He underscored Fiji’s ability to stand out among competing destinations such as Thailand, Vietnam, and Bali, primarily due to its unspoiled oceans and natural landscapes. Notably, he shared feedback from surfers at Cloudbreak this year who commended Fiji’s clean waters, expressing that visitors are willing to invest more when they observe a commitment to quality and environmental stewardship.
The VAKA Forum, which focuses on Voices, Alliances, Knowledge, and Action, convened representatives from government, industry, recycling advocates, academia, and civil society to collaborate on realistic solutions to these pressing concerns. Gavoka elaborated on how discussions at this forum are poised to enhance the tourism sector.
He announced the initiative to develop the TANOA agreements, which aim to bolster existing sustainability efforts within tourism. These agreements will set clear benchmarks for waste management practices and outline necessary steps towards sustainability, making waste management a primary focus.
Gavoka expressed gratitude to the Pacific Recycling Foundation, tourism operators, and grassroots recyclers for their contributions and urged the tourism sector to translate discussions into tangible actions for the benefit of future generations. This call to action highlights a promising path forward for Fiji as it strives to safeguard its environment and promote sustainable tourism.