National Waste Management Strategy 2019-2023.

The National Waste Management Strategy is a national policy with a cross-sectoral approach. The timeframe of the policy is 5 years between 2019 and 2023. The goal of this Strategy is to ensure clean and healthy Samoa through participatory approach and commitment to waste management, including solid, chemical and hazardous waste.
Public awareness will be raised on waste and the negative impact of inappropriate waste treatment on environment. In order to ensure better cooperation and participation for waste management, public awareness campaigns and activities will be conducted targeting general public, communities and school children as well as businesses and government agencies, to raise their understanding on waste related issues. Activities will be conducted to develop practical operational plan on waste management in order to secure sustainable waste management through proper provision of waste collection services and landfill operations. 3R programs will be developed for recycling and reuse of wastes, including plastic. Waste audits will be implemented, especially in rural areas. Data collection systems will be developed by implementing regular surveys in the field of sustainable waste management. In addition, studies will be conducted to assess and identify feasibility of potential sustainable waste management options. Efficient monitoring system will be established for the proper monitoring of waste collection and landfill operations. The legal framework will be strengthened and the enforcement of existing acts and regulations will be improved considering global context of waste management. The capacity of officials involved in waste management will be enhanced through trainings and sharing and transferring of knowledge and skills effectively. Chemical and hazardous waste management will be improved by establishing a task team, strengthening inter-agency coordination, promoting active participation of all stakeholders, increasing awareness on chemical hazards, developing the legal framework, enhancing sustainable management of chemicals during their lifecycle, and gathering related information.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment shall be responsible for the monitoring of the implementation of the National Waste Management Strategy.