Fiji faces significant tourist-related waste management challenges

Tourism is important for Fiji's economy, but it also causes a lot of waste. According to a report from the International Union for Conservation of Nature, tourists create seven times more plastic waste per person each day compared to local households. Amitesh Deo, founder of the Pacific Recycling Foundation, discussed this issue at a roundtable meeting in Nadi. Attendees included government leaders, private sector representatives, and tourism industry members. Deo mentioned that highlighting waste management problems has been challenging. Some worry it could hurt the tourism sector. Deo emphasized that hotels and resorts need to recognize their role in generating waste. He believes that Fiji should welcome tourists but still address the waste issues caused by tourism activities. Some resorts are actively trying to reduce their waste footprint. Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Lenora Qereqeretabua noted that many hotels are already taking steps to reduce waste. For example, some are replacing small plastic bottles with dispensers for shampoos and conditioners. This change could also be applied to beverages. Angela Mayer, a senior program manager, encouraged hotels to use refillable items instead of single-use plastics. She suggested that educational programs could help both hotels and tourists learn how to decrease waste.