As we look toward 2026, the Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) has shared its New Year greetings with the community while reflecting on the significant developments of 2025. The year witnessed critical milestones including enhanced engagement within the recycling sector, important policy discussions, and recognition for outstanding leadership in recycling efforts on both national and international levels.
Despite these achievements, the Foundation also highlighted persistent systemic problems that marginalize grassroots recyclers. Amitesh Deo, the PRF founder, acknowledged that while 2025 brought several positive aspects, it also presented numerous challenges. He noted a troubling trend where there is a growing emphasis on one-time clean-up campaigns, overshadowing the crucial daily efforts of grassroots recyclers who tirelessly prevent waste from ending up in landfills.
Moreover, PRF raised alarms about the exclusion of grassroots organizations from key decision-making processes within the recycling sector, particularly decisions that impact the livelihoods of informal and community-based recyclers. This exclusion is seen as a risk to the systems and networks that these recyclers have painstakingly built over time, often without adequate recognition or support.
In the face of these challenges, grassroots groups have persisted, advocating for inclusion, equity, and a people-centric approach to recycling initiatives. Throughout 2025, PRF made significant strides through platforms such as the VAKA Forums, which fostered engagement with local councils and sectors like tourism. Discussions focused on promoting shared responsibility and ethical practices in recycling.
As PRF approaches 2026, the organization is gearing up for a strategic reassessment that aligns with both local needs and global trends affecting grassroots movements. Deo has announced plans for high-level dialogues with government ministers in the New Year, emphasizing the necessity to address the concerns of those who have been foundational to recycling efforts. He advocates for 2026 to be the turning point where the contributions of grassroots recyclers are finally recognized and valued, ensuring their voices are included in shaping sustainable recycling practices.