The National Environment Service (NES) has successfully completed a mission to Mangaia from 2 to 6 March 2026, focusing on plastic pollution awareness, waste management, and the implementation of key environmental initiatives under the Pacific Ocean Litter Project (POLP) and the GEF ISLANDS Project.
The visit engaged schools, communities, and island government leaders to promote sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.
As part of the Pacific Ocean Litter Project (POLP), the team conducted an awareness session at Apii Mangaia, educating students on plastic pollution and its environmental and health impacts.
Meetings were also held with the Executive Officer, Mayor, and Aronga Mana to discuss single-use plastics (SUPs), current waste challenges, and possible solutions. Discussions included exploring the banning of certain SUPs under the Solid and Hazardous Waste Act 2025, reviewing bylaws, and identifying opportunities for improved waste management practices, drawing on lessons from initiatives in Rarotonga and Aitutaki.
The mission also assessed Mangaia’s three landfill sites in Oneroa, Tamarua, and Ivirua. NES provided guidance on safe and effective waste management, including proper covering of waste and temporary site use, as well as storage of hazardous materials like e-waste and end-of-life vehicles.
Moana, NES Pa Enua Coordinator, will work with local leaders to support fencing, signage, proper segregation, and organized collection of recyclables at the landfill sites. The PacWaste Plus project has also provided a 10-foot container for each Pa Enua to support proper segregation of recyclables.
The GEF Islands Project is a community-driven initiative to remove electronic waste and whiteware from the outer islands. NES met with the Mangaia Infrastructure Unit to confirm deposit sites and ensure appliances are cleaned and packed to meet New Zealand standards before export.
Through these efforts, NES aims to strengthen Mangaia’s waste management, protect community health, and reduce plastic pollution on the island. The mission highlights the importance of community engagement, capacity building, and collaboration with island authorities to ensure sustainable environmental practices for the Cook Islands.
