FNU formalised a partnership with Waste Recyclers Fiji Limited and Pacific Recycling Foundation to implement the I-Recycle Hub to complement the University’s recycling initiative.

The Fiji National University (FNU) formalised a partnership with Waste Recyclers Fiji Limited and Pacific Recycling Foundation to implement the I-Recycle Hub to complement the University’s recycling initiatives.

Formalised through a contract signing at the Nasinu Campus, the I-Recycle Hub will see specially designed bins built by Waste Recyclers Fiji Ltd placed at pilot locations at the Derrick Campus in Samabula and Natabua Campus in Lautoka.

The bins aim to promote recycling amongst students, staff and visitors to the campus and is a visible commitment of FNU’s sustainability commitment.

FNU’s Pro-Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, Professor Roland De Marco said the partnership aligned with the institution’s Strategic and Sustainability Plans commitment to the environment.

 “As a major tertiary education provider, it is crucial that FNU is seen to be proactive and leading the fight in undertaking more environmentally-friendly initiatives that are simple yet impactful,” Professor Roland De Marco shared.

“As a pilot project, this will be just the starting of our programmes and activities that will be undertaken across our campuses to highlight the message of reduce, reuse and recycle.”

“I note that through the I-Recycle Hub, the University will also be provided with data that will aid in our monitoring and evaluation and shape future activities.”

Waste Recyclers Fiji Ltd Director, Joseph Deo said the contract signing was significant as FNU becomes the first tertiary institution to implement the I Recycle Hub Program.

“The signing today marks a promising step towards environmental sustainability where the FNU will use the I-Recycle Hub program to inculcate best practices of waste management and recycling throughout its facilities,” Deo said.

“The I-Recycle Hub programme is a fundamental tool in terms of visible and practical participation in recycling and represents a unique concept that challenges the traditional views of recycling and aims to bring recycling to the very forefront of all operations.”

“This is a historic moment that signifies FNU’s commitment to best practices of waste management and I thank the Acting Vice Chancellor and senior management of FNU for creating space for this signing.”

Osea Vatukiwasaliwa Lakokisainai

FNU Student Environment Ambassador, Osea Vatukiwasaliwa Lakokisainai was also part of the contract signing event and commended the University for undertaking the initiative.

“Resources can be reused, such as bottles. Clean up campaigns are also helpful to maintain a healthy environment. It is important to create awareness on the importance of keeping our surroundings clean,” he said.