Smarter waste management through better data

Fiji must enhance its methods for collecting and utilizing data to effectively address escalating waste management issues and foster a more sustainable future. This imperative was emphasized by Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, Lenora Qereqeretabua, during the opening of the Pacific Recycling Foundation’s Data Digitalisation Workshop in Nadi. Qereqeretabua stated that Fiji needs to move beyond fragmented information and isolated initiatives to tackle its waste management challenges effectively. She praised the collaboration between the Pacific Recycling Foundation and the University of New South Wales, recognizing that progress is best achieved through a combination of practical experience, academic research, and policy development. The Assistant Minister underscored the importance of reliable data for informed decision-making, enabling governments, development partners, and organizations to plan strategically, measure their impact, and formulate evidence-based policies. She also stressed that digitalization efforts should be people-centered, serving as a tool to boost transparency, coordination, and information access while reinforcing, not replacing, local knowledge and community perspectives. Qereqeretabua noted that many Pacific Island nations share similar waste management concerns, suggesting that the insights gained from the workshop could offer valuable lessons for the broader region. The workshop convened representatives from government agencies, municipal councils, academic institutions, industry, civil society, and development partners to explore enhancements for Fiji’s reverse logistics systems and data architecture.

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Fiji must move away from fragmented information and isolated efforts if it is to address growing waste management challenges effectively.