Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka has stated that the ongoing waste management crisis in Fiji cannot be resolved by any single entity alone. During the inaugural Pacific Recycling Foundation’s VAKA Forum in Nadi, he emphasized the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to forge partnerships and exchange knowledge necessary for tackling waste management challenges in the Pacific region.
Gavoka underscored the need for community engagement in environmental preservation, highlighting the irony that a seemingly straightforward task has turned into a significant challenge. He noted that while Fiji’s tourism sector is a vital component of the national economy and cultural identity, its rapid expansion has led to increasingly demanding waste management issues that strain existing infrastructures.
“It is the duty of the tourism industry to ensure our beautiful islands remain pristine, resilient, and sustainable for future generations,” Gavoka declared, stressing that the survival of the tourism sector is closely tied to the conservation of the environment that draws visitors.
Furthermore, Gavoka pointed out that the waste management dilemma intersects with social, economic, and cultural challenges that affect the nation’s fabric and economy. In collaboration with the Hotel and Tourism Association, the Ministry of Tourism is actively working on a National Sustainable Tourism Framework, aimed at leveraging resources and fostering systemic change to address these pressing issues.
Amitesh Deo, founder of the Pacific Recycling Foundation, supported Gavoka’s views, noting how the tourism industry contributes significant amounts of recyclable materials in addition to various waste, including food and textiles. He highlighted that the sheer number of annual visitors to Fiji greatly impacts the waste generated, necessitating a concerted effort to manage it effectively.
Deo also pointed out that contemporary tourists are increasingly aware of their environmental impact and seek assurances that their waste, like bottled water and food containers, is being disposed of responsibly, reflecting a broad demand for sustainable practices within the tourism sector.
The collaborative efforts at the forum signify a hopeful and constructive approach as various stakeholders unite to confront Fiji’s waste management crisis, ensuring that the nation’s natural beauty is preserved for future generations. This partnership-driven strategy offers optimism for the continued sustainability of Fiji’s tourism and environmental integrity.