The POLP is part of a wider regional programme implemented by the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), which promotes sustainable practices across Pacific island nations and is funded by the Australian Government. 

POLP is crucial for supporting our national efforts in protecting the environment and particularly our marine biodiversity of the Cook Islands to ensure our human health and the sustainability of our natural resources for future generations. 

In the Cook Islands, this initiative will:

• Raise Awareness: Educate our communities about the impacts of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems and human health, and how we can make more responsible choices when it comes to our plastics use, consumption and disposal.
• Enhance Data Collection: Improve our understanding of plastic pollution through systematic data collection and analysis.
• Community Engagement: Involve local communities in cleanup efforts and promote sustainable practices to reduce plastic waste.
• Policy Advocacy: Advocate for stronger policies and regulations that support effective plastic waste management in the Cook Islands