The Government of Samoa (GoS) through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) is vested with the authority for the development and implementation of regulations, strategies and policies in regards to waste management. The MNRE manages various waste management activities mainly, litter, rubbish collection services, landfill maintenance and the sludge treatment facilities through various private contractors appointed by the GoS via the government tender process. These contractors provide household waste collection, transportation and disposal services in the various zones designated to them in the Upolu, Savaii, Manono and Apolima areas of Samoa. The contractors scope of work does not include collection and disposal of commercial, institutional, industrial and hazardous waste.

Marine litter is a key environmental challenge for Samoa. Around 70% of all litter in our urban coastal wasters is made of plastics (packages, containers, bottles, nappies etc) during our National Cleanup Campaign in October 2016. Most of these plastics are single-use items which presented a huge threat to Samoas marine wildlife.

Samoas preferred approach to solid waste management is waste minimization by applying the 3R + Return (reduce, reduce, recycle and return) approach. Not only it does make a good environmental sense, it makes good economic and business sense. Further, there has been also a great concern about the effects of unusual weather conditions such as floods, cyclones and other natural disasters producing a massive amount of debris and post disaster waste.

The government of Samoa has legislation i.e., the Waste Management Act 2010 (WMA 2010) as well as a Plastic Bag Prohibition on Importation Regulations 2013 that have provided a formal legal framework for the management of waste. Administration of the WMA 2010 is the responsibility of the MNRE.

Despite the ongoing efforts being made by the government of Samoa and its key partners, there are still gaps and lessons learned to be filled in for further collaboration and genuine partnerships with PARLEY A.I.R to address Ocean and marine plastic pollution.