To celebrate World Ozone Day 2025 and 50 Years of Environment in the Cook Islands, NES staff commemorated the occasion on Atiu. World Ozone Day is observed annually on 16 September, and this year’s theme was “From Science to Global Action.”
This year also marks 40 years since the adoption of the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer — the first global treaty to address an environmental issue of this scale. The Cook Islands became a Party to the Vienna Convention and its Montreal Protocol in 2003, and for over 20 years has remained committed to phasing out ozone-depleting substances and supporting global action on climate and air protection.
The program began with a courtesy visit by the NES team to the Atiu Island Council, followed by the planting of coconut dwarf trees in front of the Island Administration Building. The team then carried out site visits around the island, including the Taunga Nui Harbor (currently under renovation), the landfill, and Mokoreo Reserve. The day concluded with a visit to Enuamanu School, where presentations and activities were held.
Students at Enuamanu School, ranging in age from 5 to 17, learned about the importance of the ozone layer and the Montreal Protocol. They explored how gases from cooling appliances damage the ozone, the impacts on climate, environment, and health, and simple everyday actions we can all take to protect the ozone and combat climate change.
“The students at Enuamanu School were really engaged,” said Ngatupuna Kae of NES. “They asked great questions and showed a lot of interest in how they can help protect our ozone layer and care for the environment.”
Students received educational materials and took part in a fruit tree planting to close the day.
NES extends its appreciation to Mayor Timaau Mokoroa, Executive Officer Taoro Brown, Te Aronga Mana representative Vaine Paretoa, the Island Council, and the Principal, teachers, and students of Enuamanu School for their support and partnership in safeguarding Atiu’s environment.
