Samoa Releases Plan to Fully Protect 30% and Sustainably Manage 100% of Ocean by 2030 – Created by and for the people of Samoa, the Marine Spatial Plan safeguards its 120,000 square kilometer EEZ to bolster ocean health and support sustainable economic development, October 24, 2024

Today, Samoa has taken a bold step to protect its ocean! Samoa is one of the first Pacific Island countries to release its Marine Spatial Plan, committing to fully protect 30% and sustainably manage 100% of Samoa’s ocean.

Created by and for the people of Samoa, the Plan safeguards 120,000 square kilometers of Samoa’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) to enhance ocean health and support sustainable economic development. It establishes nine new fully protected Marine Protected Areas and incorporates existing Marine Spatial Plan zones as well.

The Hon. Toeolesulusulu Cedric Schuster, Samoa’s Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, made this historic announcement during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), marking the first time a Pacific Island nation has hosted the event.

The Samoa Marine Spatial Plan was developed through partnerships with regional, national, and international organizations and consultations with government agencies, the private sector, and local communities. This milestone highlights Samoa’s leadership in ocean protection, ensuring a healthy ocean, thriving communities, and a brighter future for all Samoans.