The National Environment Service (NES), with support from the Pacific Ocean Litter Project (POLP), has strengthened efforts to reduce plastic pollution and improve waste management following a successful mission to Atiu from 8 to 10 April.
The mission brought together NES, the Island Council, Aronga Mana, schools, and community groups to address increasing waste challenges and identify practical, community-driven solutions. The visit forms part of ongoing national efforts under POLP to reduce marine litter and strengthen waste management systems across the Cook Islands, while GEF ISLANDS provides complementary support for integrated island ecosystem management.
Encouraging progress was observed, particularly the community’s shift away from single-use plastic bags. However, plastic bottles, packaging, and other disposable materials continue to pose a significant challenge due to limited recycling infrastructure and landfill capacity on the island.
Deputy Mayor of Atiu, Papa Teau said that “Atiu has made good progress reducing plastic bags, but waste management is still a priority. We are committed to working together on practical solutions for Atiu.”
A key focus of the mission was youth engagement at Apii Enuamanu, where students participated in interactive sessions on plastic pollution, waste reduction, and environmental stewardship. These activities align strongly with POLP’s education and
awareness goals to empower communities, particularly young people, to become champions for change.
Apii Enuamanu teacher, Mrs Roberts stated that, “our young people are ready to be part of the solution. When they take these messages home, it creates real change in our communities. Our children are future leaders, and what they learn today will shape the future of our island.”
The NES team also conducted a site visit of the island’s dumpsite, identifying opportunities to strengthen waste systems through improved household waste separation, better landfill management practices, and increased use of existing recycling resources.
National Environment Officer and Atiu Focal Point, Enua Wichman, emphasized that, “simple actions like separating waste at home can make a significant difference in reducing pollution. Through programmes like POLP, we are supporting communities with the knowledge and tools to take these actions.”
Local initiatives, including the Guardians of Atiu and Takutea project, will further advance this work by supporting community-led clean-ups, waste audits, and awareness programmes. These efforts contribute directly to POLP’s objective of reducing ocean litter while aligning with the broader environmental goals of the GEF ISLANDS Programme.
NES will continue working closely with Atiu to build sustainable, community-driven solutions that protect the island’s environment, livelihoods, and cultural heritage for future generations.
