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This study explores the potential of polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) processing in Samoa as a sustainable pathway for waste management and economic development. With increasing global concerns over plastic pollution and the urgent need for sustainable alternatives, PHA emerges as a promising biodegradable polymer. Samoa, like many other small island nations, faces challenges in waste management and environmental conservation.

Plastic pollution is one of the greatest environmental challenges of our time, threatening our marine life and affecting food security, human health, and marine biodiversity. As countries gather for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), taking place in Apia, Samoa this week, we urge everyone to reflect on our daily habits and how they impact our planet. 👎🏽 Say NO to single-use plastics: ‘Replace’ single-use plastics products like bottles, straws, bags and cutlery with eco-friendly alternatives. ♻️ Use designated rubbish bins: there are two kinds of bins at the CHOGM venues. Plastic and cans go into their correct slots at the recycle bins placed at key locations such as near the dining areas while everything else goes into the general waste bins. SPREP through the Australian Government funded, Pacific Ocean Litter Project #POLP is working together with the Samoa Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment support the Greening of #CHOGM2024 activities.

SUP items addressed in this report include the most commonly used SUPs in the Pacific and worldwide, including plastic bags and containers for beverage, food, and personal care products. The items do not include plastic packaging for supermarket food.