Samoa is rich in natural heritage and there is no better way to learn about it than in a one-stop-shop publication packed with knowledge on the country's environment with pictures to accompany the text. 

A pictorial Guide to Samoa’s Natural Heritage is the culmination of work by Samoa’s very own environmentalist James Atherton who is switched on when it comes to Samoa’s natural environment and biodiversity.

His love for adventure and nature has led him to the trees and over Samoa’s mountains. His experience and knowledge are now all in a book for everyone to read. One of the national treasures of Samoa, the Manumea is mentioned in the book as well as archeological and historical sites.

“The purpose of this book is to increase appreciation of Samoa’s natural beauty and uniqueness and to celebrate it, but to also raise awareness of the threats to Samoa’s Natural heritage and what we can do about such threats," said Mr. Atherton. 

The book places an emphasis on the Independent State of Samoa excluding American Samoa. It is for all who have an interest in Samoa’s natural beauty. If this book raises any interest and motivation for the conservation of Samoa, it will have accomplished its purpose.

Mr. Atherton is the Samoa Conservation Society (S.C.S.) President and has led the non-government organisation in work resulting in the preservation and creation of awareness of some of Samoa’s endangered species.

His book makes reference to some of the rarest and endangered birds endemic to Samoa, including butterflies, plants as well as seashore ecology and their Samoan and English translation. 

The book is based on the many projects they have done in the past as well as a series of Facebook posts by the S.C.S. The book will be launched on 1 July 2023 which also coincides with the non-government organisation's 10th year anniversary.