Samoa strengthens its eco-tourism credentials as national conservation organisation joins BirdLife International
- Sebastian Sarrasin
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Samoa has reached another important milestone in its commitment to protecting its unique natural heritage, with the Samoa Conservation Society (SCS) officially becoming the 125th national Partner of BirdLife International, one of the world's leading conservation organisations.
The announcement marks a significant step for biodiversity conservation across the Pacific and further reinforces Samoa's growing reputation as a destination where sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship go hand in hand.
Home to nine endemic bird species found nowhere else on Earth, globally important seabird colonies and pristine rainforest ecosystems, Samoa offers visitors exceptional opportunities to experience some of the South Pacific's richest wildlife. The new partnership will strengthen conservation efforts aimed at protecting these precious habitats for future generations.
Founded in 2013, the Samoa Conservation Society has become the country's leading grassroots environmental organisation, working alongside local communities, government agencies and traditional leaders on projects ranging from invasive species management and habitat restoration to environmental education, protected areas and climate resilience.
One of the Society's most important conservation priorities has been safeguarding the critically endangered Manumea (Tooth-billed Pigeon), Samoa's national bird and one of the world's rarest pigeon species. Through research, monitoring and community engagement, the organisation has played a central role in efforts to protect this iconic species from extinction while helping preserve the island's remarkable biodiversity.
The Society has also been instrumental in conservation initiatives such as the INSPIRE project, which focuses on reducing the impact of invasive species and strengthening ecosystem resilience in Samoa's forests and watersheds, ensuring that both wildlife and local communities continue to thrive.
Joining BirdLife International provides Samoa Conservation Society with access to one of the world's largest conservation networks, enabling greater collaboration, knowledge sharing and support for future conservation programmes throughout the islands.
Tupuola Savave Sapolu, President of the Samoa Conservation Society, said: "The Samoa Conservation Society and its members are incredibly excited to be joining BirdLife International as its newest Partner. It is the culmination of a relationship that has been built over a number of years of successful collaboration, and we look forward to working together to strengthen conservation efforts for Samoa's unique biodiversity."
For travellers, the announcement highlights Samoa's continued commitment to sustainable tourism. Visitors can experience untouched rainforests, spectacular coastal landscapes and abundant birdlife, knowing that tourism is helping support the long-term protection of one of Polynesia's most biodiverse island nations.
Whether exploring lush volcanic forests, hiking to hidden waterfalls or seeking out rare endemic bird species, visitors to Samoa are discovering a destination where conservation remains at the heart of the visitor experience.
For more information about visiting Samoa, visit www.samoa.travel.
