Tourism Fiji has announced the launch of a national initiative aimed at tackling littering by educating locals and tourists alike to promote proper waste disposal across Fiji.
The “If You Can’t Bin It, Bag It” campaign aims to preserve Fiji’s natural beauty by promoting responsible practices, self-awareness, and behaviour change at the grassroots level.
Tourism Fiji CEO Brent Hill announced the campaign at this year’s Fiji Tourism Exchange, saying, “Our journey towards sustainability begins at home.
“Today, as we officially announce the ‘If You Can’t Bin It, Bag It’ campaign, we want to encourage all Fijians to play their part in keeping rubbish where it belongs – in the bin – and if there’s no bin near you, in a bag until you can dispose of it properly.”
Recognising the ongoing development of infrastructure in waste management and the significant task at hand, Tourism Fiji’s campaign aims to encourage all individuals to take more responsibility for the preservation of Fiji’s environment and temporarily store their rubbish in bags until proper disposal is available.
Tourism Fiji has worked with local partners to support the initiative to produce beautifully illustrated reusable bags for the campaign. The bags will be free throughout Fiji and available in supermarkets and other retail outlets.
“As part of our ongoing commitment to sustainability, Tourism Fiji is excited to spearhead this important initiative,” said Tourism Fiji Chief Marketing Officer Srishti Narayan.
“We believe that by working together with communities and industry, we can make a significant impact in preserving Fiji’s natural beauty, as our nature and culture are key reasons visitors choose Fiji. We’re really grateful to the many partners who have come on board to support this initiative, demonstrating a genuine commitment to environmental preservation in Fiji.”
Tourism Fiji says the campaign has been made possible with the support of several partners who have contributed funds, time, or media space for free or at discounted rates.
These include a 50 per cent contribution to the total campaign fund by Intercontinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa, Grand Pacific Hotel and The Holiday Inn, and additional generous contributions by Rosie Holidays, Ahura Resorts, Jack’s Fiji, Marriott Group, Media Metro, Walesi, Punja’s and BSP.
Tourism Fiji’s creative agency, Host Havas, developed the campaign concept pro bono. Local designer Lily Vallance illustrated it, with The Ministries of Tourism, Civil Aviation, environment, and Climate Change supporting the campaign.
The first samples of reusable bags were distributed to participants at the Fiji Tourism Exchange who wished to contribute to the cleanup efforts voluntarily.
The initiative is set to roll out nationwide in June, amplifying the messaging through a host of media exposure, including radio, social media, signage, and PR.
The Fiji Tourism Exchange (FTE) took place from 5-7 May 2024 at the Sheraton Fiji Golf and Beach Resort in Denarau.
