Return and Earn scheme aims to make Nasinu Fiji's cleanest municipality

The Nasinu Town Council launched the Return and Earn Initiative today, calling on residents, schools and businesses to help reduce waste and transform Nasinu into Fiji's cleanest municipality by turning recyclable containers into cash.

Speaking at the launch today, acting chief executive officer and Board chairman Felix Magnus said the initiative marked a significant milestone in the municipality's efforts to improve environmental cleanliness and encourage greater community participation in waste management.

He said the programme, launched in partnership with Return and Earn Fiji, aims to reduce litter while creating opportunities for residents to earn money by returning eligible bottles and cans for recycling.

Students participate in the Nasinu Town Council launch of the Return and Earn Initiative.

Photo: Joseph Balolo

Addressing students, community members and invited guests, Mr Magnus reflected on Nasinu's environmental journey, noting that the town was recognised as Fiji's cleanest municipality in 2014 but had gained a reputation as one of the country's dirtiest towns by 2023.

However, collaborative efforts between residents, the Ministry of Local Government and the Hands Across Nasinu campaign have helped restore cleanliness across the municipality, he said.

Mr Magnus said the launch of the Return and Earn Initiative represented the fulfilment of a long-standing goal to maintain a cleaner and more sustainable Nasinu.

He explained that every bottle and container returned through the programme meant one less item polluting streets, drains, rivers and oceans.

The initiative allows residents, schools, community groups and businesses to collect and return recyclable containers in exchange for cash, providing both environmental and economic benefits.

Mr Magnus stressed that the programme was more than a recycling scheme, describing it as a movement aimed at building civic pride and creating a healthier environment for future generations.

Students participate in the Nasinu Town Council launch of the Return and Earn Initiative.

Photo: Joseph Balolo

Residents are encouraged to bring their bottles and cans to the collection point at Laqere Market, where they can receive cash while contributing to environmental protection efforts.

The council hopes the initiative will strengthen the Hands Across Nasinu campaign and encourage greater community ownership of keeping the municipality clean.

Mr Magnus urged residents to support the programme and work together towards making Nasinu the cleanest municipality in Fiji once again.

"A clean Nasinu starts with us," he said.

For every returned empty plastic bottle or aluminium can, you can earn 5 cents per container.

The drop-off station at Laqere Market in Nasinu operates on:

• Days: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
• Morning Session: 9:00am – 11:00am
• Afternoon Session: 2:00pm – 4:00pm