In an impressive display of commitment to environmental sustainability, the Tanoa Plaza Hotel in Suva has managed to divert approximately 32 tonnes of recyclables from the Naboro landfill over the past decade. This achievement has been recognized by Waste Recyclers Fiji Ltd (WRFL), which has partnered with the hotel to implement effective recycling initiatives.
Amitesh Deo, the founder of WRFL and the Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF), commended the hotel for its leadership in environmental responsibility. He highlighted Tanoa Plaza Hotel’s effective waste segregation and management, establishing it as a leading example for other tourist accommodations across Fiji and the wider Pacific region. “Tanoa Plaza Hotel has shown that even urban hotels can make a significant difference in waste management and environmental sustainability,” Deo noted.
In addition to recycling, the hotel has adopted various sustainable practices, including a garden-to-table approach that utilizes its limited garden space to grow fresh produce for its kitchen. This not only enhances the quality of its menu but also promotes healthier and more eco-friendly dining choices for guests. Furthermore, to reduce waste from single-use plastics, Tanoa Plaza Hotel has replaced disposable water bottles in guest rooms with water dispensers conveniently located on each floor, aiding in the significant reduction of plastic waste.
The Tanoa Group has implemented an effective waste sorting program that includes strategically placed recycling bins in guest areas, conference spaces, and staff zones. This initiative not only ensures proper recycling but also helps to raise environmental awareness among guests and employees alike, fostering sustainable behaviors that extend beyond the hotel’s boundaries.
Tanoa Plaza Hotel’s collaboration with WRFL and PRF has been crucial in enhancing its recycling endeavors, providing support to critical figures in Fiji’s recycling efforts, known as Collection Pillars of Recycling. Deo emphasized that these partnerships highlight the hotel’s ongoing dedication to strengthening the recycling infrastructure throughout the country.
General Manager Mere Rakoroi expressed excitement about the hotel’s collaboration with PRF and WRFL, lauding their support in achieving sustainable waste management. “This journey begins with the Reddy Foundation, through which Tanoa Hotels channels its environmental and community responsibilities, ensuring that sustainability commitments translate into meaningful, measurable action,” Rakoroi remarked.
The proactive initiatives undertaken by Tanoa Plaza Hotel not only showcase its commitment to environmental stewardship but also serve as an inspiration for other businesses and communities to adopt sustainable practices. Their concerted efforts in the realm of sustainability signal a hopeful shift towards greater environmental responsibility within the hospitality industry in Fiji.