The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) through its Waste Management and Pollution Control Division officially opened the Practical Training on Used Oil Management on 26 October 2026 under the Sustainable Waste Actions in the Pacific Phase 2 (SWAP2) Project. The four-day training will run from 26–29 October 2026.
The program is funded by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) under the SWAP2 Project and aims to strengthen sustainable waste management practices across the Pacific.
The participants from government ministries and the private sector are expected to strengthen their technical knowledge and practical skills in the safe handling, storage, and management of used oil, with particular emphasis on contamination prevention and worker safety.
The workshop will also provide an opportunity for participants to identify existing operational challenges and explore practical solutions to improve used oil collection, storage, and environmentally sound treatment and disposal practices in Samoa.
The improper management of used oil poses significant risks to public health and the environment. In her opening remarks, the Assistant Chief Executive Officer of the Waste Management and Pollution Control Division, Fuimaono Katenia Rasch, highlighted the Government of Samoa’s commitment to addressing these risks, noting that work is already underway to facilitate the export and environmentally sound management of approximately 60,000 litres of used oil currently stockpiled at Tafaigata. She further emphasised that, while addressing the existing stockpile remains a priority, strengthening national collection systems, supporting infrastructure, and sustainable management practices is equally important to prevent further accumulation and minimise environmental pollution.
The Ministry acknowledges AFD for its financial support, the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) for coordinating this regional initiative, and Upskills Consultants for delivering the technical training.