The recent showing of a documentary on plastic, and how it is ending up in the ocean and killing marine species, has triggered concerns and kick started plans for this year's coastal clean-up.

The documentary titled "Plastic Paradise" looks at the effects of plastic and how it is consumed by marine species, while warning of the dangers of plastics and microplastics entering human diets through contaminated fish.

It was shown at the Tiapapata Arts Center last week as part of partnership between the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) and Sustainable Waste Actions in the Pacific (SWAP).

Tiapapata Arts Center owner, Galumalemana Steven Percival, told the Samoa Observer that over 50 people attended the screening and part of the program included an exhibition depicting marine litter. 

"We had about 50 people come and we had a long conversation afterwards," he said. "I suggested to Julie Pillet at SPREP that the film should be launched in schools and at National University of Samoa. 

"We may organise a clean up campaign at the Sa'anapu mangroves to coincide with a screening there."

SPREP Technical Waste Project Coordinator at SWAP, Julie Pillet said it would be nice to have the documentary used for awareness-raising activities including at schools.

"As mentioned by Steven, this video could be used as a support for awareness activities during clean-ups for example.

"The video will be uploaded on YouTube in the coming weeks and will be open access. But I am keen to join awareness-raising activities here in Samoa to discuss marine litter and plastic pollution.

Ms. Pillet said they will continue to promote the video under the SWAP in Samoa and across the Pacific islands.

"In July or August 2023 SWAP will launch a call for applications to select communities to conduct clean-up activities within the International Coastal Clean-up Day 2023," she added. 

"This activity will be done in collaboration with the Australian-funded Pacific Ocean Litter Project (POLP)."

Galumalemana added that he too would be in full support of a coastal clean-up day in Samoa. 

The ¢3 million SWAP Project, which is funded through the Agence Française de Développement, is being implemented by the SPREP by virtue of an agreement signed in 2020. The project aims to improve sanitation, environmental, social, and economic conditions in Pacific Island countries and territories through proper waste management.