TNG Fiji defends Waste- to-Energy Project

The Next Generation (Fiji) Pte Limited (TNG Fiji) has responded to concerns raised by Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade Lenora Qereqeretabua, saying its proposed Vuda energy-from-waste project does not breach Fiji’s obligations under the Waigani Convention.

The company said the project would process only non-hazardous municipal solid waste, everyday rubbish generated by households and businesses, and would not accept hazardous, medical or radioactive waste.

“The convention does not regulate, restrict or prohibit the movement of non-hazardous waste,” the company said.

Permanent secretary for Environment and Climate Change Sivendra Michael said during public consultations that the proposed waste stream was non-hazardous, meaning the Waigani Convention did not apply.

TNG Fiji said its Environmental Impact Assessment, prepared by international consultants GHD and submitted in March 2026, detailed the waste classification system and complied with Fiji’s Environment Management Act.

The project is currently under review by the Technical Review Committee, with Government officials assuring there will be no political interference in the approval process.

The company maintained that the Vuda facility is designed within strict legal and environmental parameters and urged public debate to remain grounded in scientific evidence and Fiji’s regulatory processes.