Samoa's increasing population is putting stress on natural resources says the State of the Environment (S.O.E.) Report 2023 which was recently launched.

The report by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (M.N.R.E.) in collaboration with the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (S.P.R.E.P.), presents a sobering evaluation of Samoa’s environmental conditions. 

This latest report builds on earlier assessments from 1993, 2006, and 2013, utilising the DPSIR (Drivers, Pressures, State, Impact, and Response) framework to offer a comprehensive review of the nation's environmental health.

The report examines four thematic areas through 50 indicators and sub-indicators, revealing a mixed and concerning picture of Samoa’s environmental state. 

The overall assessment places Samoa’s environment at a "Fair" rating of 52 per cent, with only per cent of indicators categorised as "Good."

The report identifies five primary drivers influencing environmental change in Samoa: increasing population which puts additional strain on natural resources, climate change which includes rising temperatures, sea levels, and increased frequency of natural disasters which exacerbate environmental challenges. 

It also noted key drivers such as economic and technological development, global economics and geographic constraints and cultural values and traditions. 

These drivers have led to significant environmental pressures, including land use changes, climate variability, resource use, waste generation, agriculture, and the spread of invasive species. Despite ongoing conservation efforts, these pressures are leading to a troubling trend of environmental degradation.

The assessment of thematic areas reveals a varied status:

Atmosphere, Climate, and Disaster Management: This area is rated "Poor," with only one indicator in the "Good" state. Samoa’s climate projections indicate rising temperatures, increased hot days, and a sea level rise of 5.2 mm per annum, expected to reach 170 mm by 2030.

Terrestrial Environment: This area shows a mix of "Good," "Fair," and "Poor" conditions. The confirmation of the extinction of the Samoa woodhen and ongoing threats to the Manumea underscore the urgent need for enhanced biodiversity protection.

Marine and Coastal Environments: Similar to terrestrial environments, this area also displays a combination of "Good," "Fair," and "Poor" states, with notable degradation of critical habitats like wetlands, coral reefs, and forests.

Built Environment: Generally in a "Fair" to "Poor" state, the built environment faces challenges in sanitation, waste management, and infrastructure development. The Tafaigata waste management site, for example, has a projected lifespan of only nine years if current waste disposal practices continue.

Efforts to address environmental challenges include increased community engagement, national policies like the Ocean Strategy, and improved conservation management. However, the report highlights several areas needing improvement. 

This includes effective application of management plans and enforcement of environmental legislation remain significant challenges due to limited resources and capacity, recycling and repurposing efforts need to be bolstered to extend the lifespan of waste management facilities and mitigate environmental impacts.

While improvements are noted, many sanitation facilities remain inadequate, contributing to environmental contamination.

The report also covers environmental governance and funding. Annual government funding for environmental initiatives has been stable, but external funding is crucial for project implementation. 

Samoa’s participation in 24 multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs) is notable, though reporting on these agreements is inconsistent, and there are gaps in gender equity within the environmental sector.

Nonetheless, the report outlines a series of broad, sector-wide recommendations that target key issues identified across various indicators.

These include centralising environment data and reporting, enhancing community engagement and co-management, investing in research and monitoring, strengthening law enforcement and compliance, increasing public awareness and education, prioritise data collection and monitoring, building capacity and securing resources, creating a digital visual library, review and coordinate environment plans, as well as monitoring community-based projects. 

By implementing these recommendations, Samoa can advance its environmental management strategies and work towards a more sustainable and resilient future. 

The report underscores the importance of a coordinated, sector-wide approach to address the pressing environmental issues facing the nation.