Plastics Project Officer Melina Tuiravakai has been featured in the Global Environment Facility’s (GEF) GEF Voices series, highlighting the Cook Islands’ efforts to address plastic pollution through community-led action, Indigenous knowledge and circular economy solutions.
In the interview, Mel shares how the GEF-8 RESPONSE Project is working alongside communities, government and the private sector to reduce single-use plastics while promoting practical reuse and refill solutions. She also reflects on the importance of empowering women, youth and Indigenous voices to lead lasting environmental change.
The international recognition continues with the Cook Islands RESPONSE Project also featured in the Plastic Reboot Annual Report 2025, showcasing the country’s work to reduce plastic pollution through upstream solutions, circular economy approaches and locally led action.
Read the full GEF Voices interview: https://www.thegef.org/newsroom/feature-stories/work-about-more-plastics
