Local recyclers like the Samoa Recycling and Waste Management Association (SRWMA) now have the opportunity to collectively tackle challenges through a Pacific alliance.

The Inaugural Pacific Recyclers meeting took place at the Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi, Fiji, on 1 and 2 August.

This groundbreaking initiative aims to foster discussions toward forming a regional recycling alliance, addressing the significant waste management challenges facing the Pacific region.

The Pacific region is at a critical juncture, with waste management issues becoming increasingly urgent.

The first-ever Pacific Recyclers Meeting represented a historic opportunity for grassroots recycling organisations across the Pacific to come together, share experiences, and collectively tackle these challenges.

The event included knowledge-sharing sessions, technical training, and capacity-building activities on Circular Economy, Recycling, and Ocean Plastics Pollution Prevention, supported by donor partners such as USAID and Tourism Fiji.

The meeting was attended by representatives from grassroots recycling organisations in Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Tonga, Samoa and Fiji.

PRF Founder, Amitesh Deo said they are excited to launch this pioneering initiative in partnership with SRWMA.

“For too long, many grassroots recycling organisations in the Pacific have operated in isolation, grappling with significant challenges without adequate support or recognition. This event offers a historic opportunity for these organisations to come together, share their experiences, and collectively address the critical issues surrounding waste management,” said Deo.

Samoa Recycling and Waste Management Association’s Co-Founder, Marina Keil said building partnership and collaboration is key.

“It harnesses the diverse strength and expertise of each organisation, creating a strong synergy to tackle waste in the Pacific, ensuring that our kids and our future generation live in a cleaner and greener Pacific,” said Keil.

USAID Acting Mission Director, Jason Gilpin said USAID was proud to support the formation of a regional recycling alliance to build a sustainable circular economy in the Pacific and elevate the efforts of recycling organisations in the region.

“USAID is committed to partnering with governments, collection pillars of recycling (CPR), communities, and organisations to raise public awareness and help countries recycle and reduce the amount of plastic waste entering our oceans,” said Gilpin.

Tourism Fiji’s Chief Operations Officer, Leigh Howard said they were excited to support the Inaugural Pacific Recyclers Meeting.

“This event is a great opportunity for us to work together on better waste management and protect our beautiful islands. By joining forces and sharing ideas, we can make a real difference in our environment. We are looking forward to the positive impact this meeting will have, especially for those on the ground,” said Howard.

Recycling in Samoa presents an opportunity for the nation to reduce plastic waste and effectively control the litter problem.