The Samoa Tourism Authority (S.T.A.) has stepped up its efforts to reduce plastic waste in Apia taking decisive action to make ongoing and future events plastic-free. 

S.T.A.’s effort is part of a broader strategy to promote sustainable practices within the tourism sector and the wider community. 

In doing so the authority has installed water dispensers at key locations including the STA Cultural Village and the STA Information Fale on Beach Road. 

The water dispensers are not just for the use of STA staff, the authority has extended the initiative to include visitors and the general public.

The aim is to encourage everyone to bring their reusable bottles and refill them at no cost, reducing the reliance on single-use plastic bottles. 

S.T.A. said the initiative is particularly timely as Samoa prepares to host the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) next month. 

“As a leader in the Pacific region, Samoa is keen to showcase its commitment to sustainability and the reduction of plastic waste.

“S.T.A. is hopeful that this initiative will serve as a catalyst for further action in the fight against plastic waste, and plans are in place to install more dispensers in the future.”

S.T.A. is spearheading the village beautification programme and drives to maintain Samoa’s beauty, not marred by plastic waste leading by example in promoting sustainable tourism.

S.T.A. acknowledged the ongoing assistance and support of Pure Pacific Water (P.P.W.) who have made this project possible. 

P.P.W. provides a certified filtration system that meets the Samoan Drinking Water Standards. 

They offer bottle-less drinking water systems that eliminate the need for plastic bottles, providing unlimited freshly chilled water. Their system is well received by the local businesses, the Government, and residents for its environmental benefits.