In Samoa the number of species of plants and animals considered at risk of extinction has grown from 76 in 2009 to 118 in 2020, said the Samoa Conservation Society (SCS) as they celebrated their 10th anniversary on Saturday night.

A new pictorial guide of Samoa's flora and fauna was also launched at the same event at the National University of Samoa (NUS) Fale.

The SCS President, James Atherton said they were formed to ensure the survival of Samoa's endangered species.

“Ten years ago a few concerned Samoans and expatriates got together to create this society. We felt at the time that there was a niche or opportunity for a new environmental group to focus firmly on action to conserve Samoa’s natural heritage and in particular her highly threatened species and their habitats,” he said

“The World Conservation Union or IUCN assesses the number of threatened species in every country of the world every few years. In Samoa, the number of species considered at risk of extinction has grown from 76 in 2009 to 118 in 2020.

“That’s a 55 per cent increase in 11 years! In the lifetimes of most people here, Samoa has lost at least one bat and one butterfly species and probably many others that have not been documented."

He said Samoa should not forget where its culture comes from, nature.

"Not only has nature sustained Samoans for 3,000 years it has provided the material for our legends, our language, our proverbs, our songs, the motifs on our pe’a and malu, as well as the food, medicines, handicrafts and building material that have together created such a rich culture and society," he said.

“Taking action is the cornerstone of their ethos. Samoa is still a treasure trove of beautiful creatures and landscapes and seascapes. We have so much to be proud of and to celebrate."

The book that was launched is called "A pictorial guide to Samoa’s natural heritage”, which is a 67-page "love letter" that celebrates Samoa’s natural beauty but also pleads to readers not to take it for granted.

The book is directed to all lovers of Samoa but particularly for the youth. There will also be a Samoan version coming soon.