Government agencies, private sector representatives, civil society organisations, and community stakeholders came together at Masters House Hall to discuss practical solutions for reducing single-use plastics in the Cook Islands and advancing a cleaner, more sustainable future, on September 22nd 2026.
The Multi-Stakeholder Meeting on Single-Use Plastics, convened by the Te Ipukarea Society (TIS), provided a platform for participants to share perspectives on the challenges posed by plastic waste, review ongoing initiatives, and identify priority actions to support national efforts to reduce plastic pollution.
The meeting programme included updates on the development of the National Action Plan (NAP) on Plastics, waste management infrastructure, current policy initiatives, and facilitated discussions on practical solutions for reducing single-use plastics.
Participants explored opportunities for collaborative action across government, businesses, communities, and civil society to reduce plastic pollution and improve waste management outcomes nationwide.
Representatives from Aitutaki also took part in the national dialogue, including Mayor Nick Henry, Linda Ruamoana of the National Environment Service and Colette Clarke of Grow Aitutaki. Their participation was supported by the GEF Plastic Reboot RESPONSE Project, helping ensure Pa Enua perspectives and experiences were represented in discussions on the future of plastics management in the Cook Islands.
Image: Aitutaki Mayor Nick Henry presenting back during the meeting.
Mayor Henry highlighted the importance of including island communities in national discussions on plastic pollution, noting the value of sharing Aitutaki’s experiences while learning from other stakeholders.
The National Environment Service provided an update on current projects, policy developments, and regulatory considerations aimed at reducing the use of single-use plastics and supporting more sustainable consumption and production practices. Participants also received updates on infrastructure and waste management challenges affecting the Cook Islands.
Hayley Weeks, Manager of Environmental Partnerships at National Environment Service, highlighted the importance of a whole-of-society approach to addressing plastic pollution.
“Addressing single-use plastics requires a coordinated effort across government, businesses, community organisations, and consumers. The discussions highlighted both the challenges we face and the opportunities available to reduce plastic pollution in the Cook Islands. The National Action Plan on Plastics will provide an important framework to guide collective action and support a more sustainable future for our communities and environment” said Weeks.
Stakeholders participated in group discussions to identify key barriers to reducing single-use plastics, explore alternatives to commonly used plastic products, and discuss opportunities for future collaboration. Discussions highlighted the need for strengthened awareness, practical alternatives, supportive policies, and continued engagement with businesses and consumers.
Sieni Tiraa-Ivaiti of Te Ipukarea Society welcomed the strong participation and commitment from stakeholders.
“Bringing stakeholders together is essential to finding practical and effective solutions to the growing issue of plastic pollution. We were encouraged by the level of engagement and the willingness of participants to share ideas, experiences, and potential solutions. The outcomes of this meeting will help strengthen future collaboration and inform actions that protect our marine and island environments said Tiraa-Ivaiti.
The meeting reinforced the importance of a coordinated national approach to tackling plastic pollution and protecting the Cook Islands’ unique marine and terrestrial environments. Outcomes from the discussions will help inform the ongoing development of the National Action Plan on Plastics and future actions to reduce plastic waste across the country.
The National Environment Service acknowledges the valuable contributions of all participants and thanks Te Ipukarea Society for facilitating this important multi-stakeholder dialogue.
