Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka has urged the tourism sector to take more responsibility when it comes to waste management, emphasizing the critical importance of clean environments for Fiji’s attractiveness and long-term viability. During his address at the Pacific Recycling Foundation’s VAKA Forum, Gavoka highlighted the significant waste generated by the tourism industry and the strain that limited landfill capacities impose on local communities.
In a competitive landscape that includes popular destinations like Thailand, Vietnam, and Bali, he stressed that Fiji’s pristine oceans and breathtaking natural beauty are crucial for distinguishing the island nation. Feedback from surfers at Cloudbreak this year noted the exceptional cleanliness of Fiji’s waters, with many visitors indicating a willingness to pay a premium when they see a strong commitment to quality and environmental protection.
The VAKA Forum, which emphasizes Voices, Alliances, Knowledge, and Action, brought together stakeholders from various sectors, including government, industry leaders, recycling advocates, academia, and civil society. The forum aimed to foster collaborative solutions to pressing environmental issues faced by the tourism sector. Gavoka emphasized that the discussions held there are set to enhance the industry’s sustainability efforts.
He introduced the TANOA agreements, an initiative designed to reinforce current sustainable practices in tourism. These agreements will establish clear guidelines for waste management and outline essential steps towards sustainability, placing waste management at the forefront of the sector’s priorities.
Gavoka expressed appreciation for the contributions of the Pacific Recycling Foundation, tourism operators, and grassroots recyclers. He urged the industry to transform deliberations into concrete actions that will benefit future generations. This initiative represents a hopeful and proactive approach for Fiji as it seeks to protect its environment while promoting sustainable tourism.