New recycling hub to cut Ba landfill waste

Residents, farmers and businesses in and around Ba are expected to benefit from improved recycling services following the establishment of a new recycling hub aimed at reducing waste sent to the Ba dumpsite.

The expansion by the Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) and its entrepreneurial arm, Waste Recyclers Fiji Limited (WRFL), has been made possible through a partnership with RC Manubhai, which has provided space at its Ba yard for a recycling collection and operations facility.

The new facility is expected to strengthen recycling accessibility across the Western Division by increasing the collection, sorting and transportation of recyclable materials through Fiji's recycling network.

PRF founder Amitesh Deo said the initiative would help divert recyclable waste from landfill while making recycling more accessible to communities outside major urban centres.

“Meaningful environmental action cannot happen in isolation. Partnerships like this demonstrate what is possible when organisations come together with a shared commitment to creating positive environmental and social impact,” Mr Deo said.

“We are grateful to RC Manubhai for believing in this work and supporting the expansion of recycling services into Ba.”

Launch of the new recycling facility in Ba.

Mr Deo said expanding recycling opportunities beyond Fiji's major towns and cities remained a key part of the organisation's long-term vision.

He said the facility would make it easier for residents, farmers and businesses in Ba and surrounding areas to participate in recycling programmes while reducing the amount of waste ending up in landfill.

RC Manubhai chief executive officer Dr Uppiliappan Gopalan said the company was pleased to support an initiative that would benefit both communities and the environment.

“At RC Manubhai, we believe partnerships and collective responsibility are essential in creating lasting change,” Dr Gopalan said.

“Supporting this initiative aligns with our commitment to contributing positively to the communities in which we operate and encouraging more sustainable practices for the future.”

The facility will also support public awareness campaigns on responsible waste management and recycling throughout the Western Division.

Stakeholders say the partnership highlights the growing role of collaboration between community organisations and the private sector in advancing sustainability efforts and strengthening Fiji's circular economy.