Nadi, Fiji (February 4th -6th 2025) – A workshop on plastic pollution was recently held in Fiji, bringing together representatives from our Pacific Countries, to discuss ways to tackle the growing problem of plastic waste in the Pacific. The event aimed to raise awareness and share knowledge on how to reduce plastic pollution across the islands. Plastic pollution has become a major concern in the Pacific, with tons of plastic waste ending up in the ocean every year. This waste harms marine life, damages ecosystems, and threatens the livelihoods of people who depend on the sea for food and income. The workshop focused on practical solutions to help us Pacific nations reduce plastic waste and protect their environment.
Local and international experts spoke at the event, sharing their experiences and successes in managing plastic pollution. The participants learned about different recycling methods, waste management strategies, and alternatives to single-use plastics. The workshop also addressed the importance of involving local communities in the fight against plastic pollution, as the problem is most severe in rural and coastal areas, one of the key takeaways from the workshop was the need for stronger government policies to reduce plastic production and consumption. “We must take action now before it is too late,” said one of the speakers at the event. “Our ocean is our lifeline, and if we don’t protect it, we will lose much more than just a resource. We will lose our way of life.”
Gretta Murare – Mitiaro Environment Officer from Environment Stewardship Division of NES and
Claytoncy Taurarii – Director Waste Management from ICI both attended the conference from Cook Islands. They delivered Cook Islands presentation highlighting successful projects in the Cook Islands, which have reduced plastic use through community-driven efforts and local initiatives, inspiring others in the region to adopt similar strategies, through ICI we have the Coca Cola Agreement utilizing the Moana Taka Partnership. The workshop in Fiji marks a crucial step toward a cleaner, healthier future for the Pacific Islands, as countries across the region unite to tackle the issue of plastic pollution together.
