Pacific tourism leaders commit to eradicating single-use plastics

Pacific tourism industry leaders are pushing for regional sustainable development by approving an industry toolkit to eradicate single-use plastics.

The Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) Board of Directors met in Nadi, Fiji, to approve the Certification Framework and Implementation Toolkit. The initiative adds to the Standards for Phasing Out Single-Use Plastics, approved by the Board in 2023.

The standards and toolkit were developed with the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) through the Australian Government-funded Pacific Ocean Litter Project (POLP) and SPTO.

It is designed to provide practical pathways and support for Pacific governments and tourism operators to eradicate single-use plastics.

Christopher Cocker, Chief Executive of SPTO, says the initiative reinforces the importance of sustainable development and environmental preservation in the Pacific tourism industry.

“We all recognise the vital role tourism plays in the economic development of our island nations,” Cocker says. “It is a cornerstone of livelihoods and a driver of progress, however, we are also acutely aware that development must be mindful and sustainable.”

Cocker says change, while often positive, can shift people's way of life, culture, and, critically, the environment.

“This is precisely why the Pacific Ocean Litter Project (POLP) initiative, focusing on phasing out single-use plastics within our tourism industry, is so crucial,” he adds.

“It’s not just about mitigating negative impacts; it’s about proactively shaping a more sustainable future for our islands.”

The entire initiative, including the regulatory standards, framework, and toolkit, was developed under the Pacific Sustainable Tourism Policy Framework.

Sefanaia Nawadra, SPREP Director, says implementing the toolkit aligns environmental priorities in the Pacific region.

“As we confront the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, this initiative shows that Pacific leadership on sustainability is real and growing,” Nawadra says.

“Through the POLP project and this partnership with SPTO, we’re equipping one of the region’s most important sectors with tools to protect our environment, support livelihoods, and build lasting resilience.”

This initiative highlights a broader regional emphasis on developing regenerative tourism, with sustainability intertwined with recovery and growth strategies.