Samoa Embraces Circular Economy to Minimize Waste and Promote Sustainability

Samoa is embracing a concept that's not entirely new but holds immense promise for a sustainable future, the Circular Economy. This approach, focused on minimizing waste and promoting sustainable resource use, is believed to have been practised by the Samoans over the years.

In a recent workshop hosted by the Ministry of National Resources and Environment (MNRE) in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), local champions of circularity highlighted how Samoans have long practiced elements of the Circular Economy. For example, the tradition of reusing green waste to create handicrafts and arts reflects a cultural ethos of repurposing items—a practice that aligns perfectly with circular principles.

Agnes Fruean, from the local business This N That, emphasized how green waste was traditionally seen as wealth, echoing the sentiment that Samoans have always valued resourcefulness and sustainability. However, challenges persist, especially with the influx of imported goods leading to increased waste and pollution.

Recognizing the urgency, the Government of Samoa is taking decisive steps. They are establishing a Waste Management and Pollution Control Division and prioritizing Circular Economy initiatives like the CERO Waste Project. This project aims to recover low-value waste items and develop a Circular Economy Policy for Waste Management, promoting recycling and waste reduction strategies.

“Our Circular Economy portfolio should mean that our collective commitments, efforts and most importantly, our actions, are complementary, whether it be from the public or private sector as well as civil society,” said Fuimaono Katenia Rasch, Assistant Chief Executive Officer, MNRE Waste Management and Pollution Control Division.

UNDP's involvement, along with partnerships with the British High Commission, SPREP, and local NGOs and communities, underscores the collaborative effort to shift towards circular practices. The focus is not just on waste management but also on fostering innovation and economic growth through green industries.

“The Circular Economy is based on the principles of ‘designing out’ waste and pollution, keeping products and materials in use, and regenerating natural systems. This means moving away from the traditional linear economy model of ‘take-make-dispose’ towards a more sustainable approach that values resource efficiency and environmental protection,” said Aliona Niculita, UNDP Resident Representative.

By localizing circularity and promoting recycling and reuse, Samoa can reduce waste, decrease its carbon footprint, and create new economic opportunities. It's a transformative journey that aligns cultural heritage with global sustainability goals, paving the way for a brighter and greener future for Samoa.

For more information about the project, please contact: 

Ms. Marina Orruela Monteoliva, Innovative Programming and Partnerships Analyst

UNDP Multi Country Office, Samoa |Tel. +685 23670 (ext. 66)| E: marina.monteoliva@undp.org 

For media queries, please contact: 

Ms. Laufālē’ainā Lesā, Communications Analyst, UNDP Multi Country Office, Samoa |Tel. +685 23670| E: laufaleaina.lesa@undp.org | www.ws.undp.org