The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment through its Waste Management and Pollution Control Division conducted a Waste Audit Training for the Samoa Tourism Authority.
By combining MNRE’s environmental expertise and STAs access and influence on the Tourism Industry, we are creating a powerful synergy for advancing environmental sustainability
The Intended Outcomes of the training are:
Increased Awareness and Understanding: STA staff will have a better understanding of the types and quantities of waste generated by the tourism sector. This foundational knowledge is crucial for developing effective waste management strategies.
Integration of Waste Management into Tourism Planning: The STA is likely to incorporate waste reduction, reuse, and recycling initiatives into their planning and development strategies for tourism sites, accommodations, and activities.
This could include:
Promoting eco-friendly accommodations and tour operators with robust waste management practices.
Developing guidelines and best practices for waste management at tourism hotspots.
Considering waste management infrastructure in future tourism development projects.
Collaboration and Partnerships: The training fosters a stronger working relationship between the STA and the MNRE’s waste management division. This collaboration will likely lead to joint initiatives, shared resources, and a more coordinated approach to tackling waste issues in the tourism sector.
Promoting Sustainable Tourism Practices: The STA will be better equipped to educate tourists and the local tourism industry on responsible waste disposal and reduction practices.
The Ministry wishes to acknowledge the kind support of the Government of New Zealand, through the Samoa Tourism Resilience and Recovery Program for making this training possible