The Cook Islands was represented at the international roundtable “Safeguarding an Effective Plastics Treaty”, held in Madrid, Spain, from 10–12 June 2026. The meeting brought together a select group of government representatives, international organisations, and technical experts from around the world to discuss pathways towards an ambitious and effective global agreement to address plastic pollution.
Representing the Cook Islands was Halatoa Fua, Director of the National Environment Service, who joined participants from countries across the Pacific, Europe, Latin America, Africa, and other regions in discussions on the future of global action to tackle plastic pollution.
The retreat formed part of ongoing international efforts to support negotiations for a legally binding global plastics treaty under the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) process. Discussions focused on strengthening understanding of the key elements required for an effective treaty capable of addressing plastic pollution throughout the full lifecycle of plastics.
Mr Fua noted that plastic pollution remains one of the most significant environmental challenges facing Pacific Island countries, impacting marine ecosystems, biodiversity, food security, tourism, and the health and wellbeing of communities.
“For the Cook Islands, protecting our ocean environment is a national priority. Participation in forums such as this ensures that Pacific voices continue to be heard in international discussions and that the unique challenges and perspectives of Small Island Developing States are reflected in future global solutions.”
The retreat provided an opportunity for participants to exchange perspectives on emerging issues related to treaty implementation, financing, governance arrangements, sustainable production and consumption, and measures to reduce plastic pollution globally.
Participation in the meeting also strengthened relationships with international partners and provided valuable insights that will assist the Cook Islands in preparing for future rounds of plastics treaty negotiations.
The Cook Islands remains committed to supporting international efforts to address plastic pollution and to advancing sustainable waste management, marine conservation, and circular economy initiatives both nationally and regionally.
