In a bid to boost public interest and promote environmental consciousness, the Samoa Tokelau Association of Recyclers (S.T.A.R) has successfully collected more than 6000 kilograms of plastics with the help of 12 schools in Upolu.  

The two pilot programmes are the Recover-Enrich-Appreciate-Prosper (REAP) initiative and The Bag that Builds, or TBTB, that UNDP is implementing under its Circular Economy for the Recovery of Waste in Samoa Transition Project, commonly referred to as the CERO Waste Project.

The initiatives aimed to increase awareness about the importance of recycling and proper waste management during two pilot programs, 

Vice President of S.T.A.R Fuimaono Matautia Hetta Fuimaono expressed gratitude for the public's participation and highlighted the project's significance. 

"Based on the outcome statistically, as you heard earlier today, it's about 6,600 and plus kgs that we were able to collect. So if you have to cover that for the rest of Samoa, imagine, it could have been like maybe the end or make a couple of years" Fuimaono said. 

The initiatives, which commenced three months ago, served as a critical step towards promoting sustainable practices within the community. 

When asked about the next steps, Fuimaono mentioned, "To expand the project, to cover hopefully the rest of the schools in Samoa." 

Discussing the importance of continuity and consistency in such projects, Fuimaono emphasised, "Consistency is one of the key components for things like this. If we want to shift people's mindset, we need to be consistent."

 S.T.A.R's efforts have sparked discussions about the need for similar initiatives aimed at raising public awareness and encouraging responsible waste management practices across Samoa. 

The association's dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship serves as a commendable example for communities striving to make a positive impact on the environment. With their commitment to expanding the project and engaging more schools, STAR's initiative stands as a testament to the power of collective action in promoting environmental sustainability. 

Each school involved was given a plaque in recognition of the school's partnership and support for the two pilot programmes and also were given $2000 worth of vouchers with help from Taula Beverage.

The schools: Saint Mary's Primary School, Papauta Girl's College, Le Amosa Savavau Preparaptory School, Marist Brothers Mulivai, Vaiala Beach School, Tanugamanono Primary School, Leifiifi College, Peace Chapel Christian School, RLSS Primary School, Ah Mu Academy, Robert Louis Stevenson Secondary School, Avele College.