Return and Earn boosts employment in Nasinu with new recycling center

Fiji's "Return and Earn" initiative is expanding its reach with the opening of its tenth recycling center in Nasinu. The program aims to establish over 50 centers across the nation, enhancing waste management and encouraging community participation in recycling efforts.

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You know, machines offer a level of efficiency that, in larger countries, makes sense. In our country and in our part of the world, the aim is to ensure that we can balance different considerations. One of those considerations includes whether or not we introduce machines that displace the need for people’s jobs.

Unlike automated systems common overseas, Return and Earn Fiji deliberately employs a people-centered approach. Dwain Qalovaki, a representative, explained that while machines offer efficiency, the organization balances this with the need to create jobs. "The aim is to ensure that we can balance different considerations," he stated, emphasizing the goal of avoiding job displacement through automation.

The program's expansion has already led to new employment opportunities, with partners hiring staff to manage the collection centers. "So the focus really is on jobs and making sure that we can create a meaningful and dignified way for people to be able to bring in their cans and bottles, but also to earn a living," Qalovaki added.

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So the focus really is on jobs and making sure that we can create a meaningful and dignified way for people to be able to bring in their cans and bottles, but also to earn a living.

Minister for Local Government Maciu Nalumisa welcomed the initiative, noting its environmental benefits in reducing landfill waste. Funded by contributions from eight beverage companies, Return and Earn is expected to generate additional green jobs while promoting recycling and waste reduction throughout Fiji.

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So through this initiative, we’re able to reduce the amount of rubbish we take to the landfill in Naboro as well as to other dumpsites around our country.