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Samoa Tourism Champions a Plastic-Free Future Through the ‘This for That’ Campaign


Protecting Samoa’s pristine natural environment is at the heart of sustainable tourism, and our client, the Samoa Tourism Authority (STA), is proud to support the Pacific-wide ‘This for That’ Campaign—an innovative initiative aimed at reducing and ultimately eliminating single-use plastics from the tourism industry.


Launched by the South Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) in collaboration with the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) through the Australian Government-funded Pacific Ocean Litter Project, the campaign encourages tourism operators, businesses, communities, and visitors to adopt more sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics.


The initiative was officially unveiled during the South Pacific Tourism Exchange (SPTE 2026) in Nadi, Fiji, where Samoa Tourism joined regional partners in demonstrating a collective commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable tourism development.


Why Reducing Plastic Pollution Matters


For Samoa and many Pacific Island nations, the environment is more than just a tourism asset—it is a way of life. Pristine beaches, vibrant marine ecosystems, and natural landscapes attract thousands of visitors each year while providing livelihoods for local communities.


However, growing plastic pollution poses a significant threat to these valuable resources. Single-use plastics often find their way into waterways and oceans, harming marine life, degrading natural habitats, and impacting the visitor experience. Left unchecked, plastic waste can undermine the very ecosystems that support tourism and community wellbeing.


The ‘This for That’ Campaign seeks to address this challenge by promoting reusable, circular, and environmentally friendly alternatives that help preserve the Pacific’s natural beauty for future generations.


A Shared Commitment to Sustainable Tourism


STA Chief Executive Officer, Niumata Kitiona Pogi, welcomed the initiative and congratulated SPREP and SPTO for their leadership in advancing practical solutions to one of the region’s most pressing environmental issues.


“The elimination of single-use plastics is crucial not only for the preservation of our natural environments but also for the long-term sustainability of the tourism industry,” said Mr. Pogi.


“By protecting our oceans and ecosystems, we ensure that our communities thrive and that future generations can continue to experience the unparalleled beauty of the Pacific.”


Mr. Pogi also highlighted the importance of stronger regulations, ongoing community awareness programmes, and the adoption of sustainable tourism practices to effectively address plastic waste.


Leading by Example


The Samoa Tourism Authority has already implemented several initiatives aimed at reducing plastic consumption. One successful example is the installation of water dispensers at the Samoa Tourism Cultural Village, encouraging visitors and staff to refill reusable water bottles rather than rely on single-use plastic bottles.


These small but impactful actions demonstrate how tourism organisations can play a leading role in driving positive environmental change.


Regional Collaboration Driving Real Action


SPTO Chief Executive Officer Chris Cocker emphasised that the health of the Pacific Ocean is closely connected to the success of the tourism industry and the wellbeing of Pacific communities.


Similarly, SPREP Director General Sefanaia Nawadra highlighted the importance of regional cooperation in turning sustainability commitments into meaningful action.

“It is important that tourism, as the largest economic sector in our region, and its stakeholders continue to demonstrate not only economic leadership but also social and environmental stewardship,” he said.


Their messages reinforce a shared regional vision: tourism growth must go hand in hand with environmental responsibility.


Supporting Samoa’s Sustainable Tourism Vision


At the national level, STA continues to work closely with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) to reduce plastic pollution and promote sustainable practices across the tourism sector.


Efforts include supporting improved waste management systems in hotels, tourism businesses, and visitor attractions, while aligning with the objectives outlined in the proposed Samoa Sustainable Tourism Policy 2026–2036.


These initiatives represent an important step toward building a tourism industry that is environmentally responsible, economically resilient, and beneficial to local communities.


How Visitors Can Make a Difference


Sustainability is a shared responsibility, and visitors to Samoa are encouraged to actively support the ‘This for That’ Campaign during their travels.


Simple actions such as carrying reusable water bottles, refusing single-use plastics, disposing of waste responsibly, and supporting eco-conscious businesses can make a significant difference.


Together, residents, tourism operators, and visitors can help protect Samoa’s natural treasures and ensure that future generations continue to enjoy the clean, beautiful, and vibrant islands that make Samoa a world-class destination.


As Samoa continues its journey toward a more sustainable future, initiatives like the ‘This for That’ Campaign demonstrate the power of collaboration and collective action in preserving the Pacific’s greatest asset—its environment.


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