Govt to provide protective gear for recyclers

The Government will supply protective gear to recyclers across Fiji, Minister for Information, Environment and Climate Change Lynda Tabuya announced today.

Ms Tabuya made the commitment at the opening of the three-day VAKA Forum with the Collection Pillars of Recycling (CPR) at the Fiji Women's Crisis Centre shelter in Namadi Heights, Suva.

CPR, formerly known as informal waste pickers, are community members who collect recyclable materials from dumpsites and public areas.

"We will be supplying protective gear for you in the line of work that you do," Ms Tabuya said. "It is about your safety, dignity and protection in the workplace."

The forum, organised by the Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) and running from March 11 to 13, brought together 11 CPR from Taveuni, Labasa, Ba, Lautoka, Navua, Nausori, Lami and the Central Division, some flying for the first time to attend.

The forum marks the first step toward forming Fiji's first National CPR Alliance, which aims to give recyclers a united voice on working conditions and recognition.

PRF founder Amitesh Deo, who has championed the recycling movement for over three decades, said CPR had long been overlooked.

"CPR are the backbone of this system, yet their voices have rarely been included in national discussions on waste management," he said.

Fiji Women's Crisis Centre coordinator Shamima Ali, whose organisation is partnering with PRF to run empowerment sessions at the forum, said the timing was significant.

"These women are the backbone of recycling, and it is really significant that we are giving them a voice," Ms Ali said.

Ms Tabuya also confirmed her ministry would explore a school recycling programme and push for stricter laws on illegal dumping, including heavier penalties for businesses.