Waste in the Blue Pacific : Regional Summary Report

Overview & Synopsis

The Pacific Island Countries (PICs) have a deep and historic connection to the ocean and natural environment. Traditionally referred to as Small Island Developing States (SIDS) due to their small land areas and development challenges, PICs are increasingly recognized as Large Ocean States (LOS), emphasizing their vast marine territories and the resources under their jurisdictions, shifting the narrative from one of vulnerability to one of opportunity. Despite contributing minimally to global environmental challenges, PICs are disproportionately affected by climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution - the three interconnected elements of the triple planetary crisis. Increasing levels of pollution, particularly from poor waste management, further compound the effects of climate change by degrading marine ecosystems that serve as natural carbon sinks. While climate change remains a top concern, pollution from an increasingly consumer-based way of life escalates threats to the region’s ocean health and economic stability. Marine-based economic sectors, including fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, and maritime transport, are vital for economic growth, jobs, public revenue, and food security in the region and rely on the Pacific’s biodiversity and ecosystem services. This study specifically examines one of the critical threats - pollution, particularly from plastic waste - on three blue economy sectors - fisheries, tourism, and maritime transport - across 12 PICs. The 2050 Strategy includes seven thematic areas, one of which focuses on Ocean and Environment. This strategy calls for a precautionary and forward-looking approach to safeguard the region’s ecosystems and resources from exploitation, pollution, waste, and other environmental hazards.