Samoa’s National Environment Week 2026 continued at the Sheraton Hotel in Vaisigano on Tuesday, with Government Minister Ale Vena Ale calling attention to the role of villages, youth and civil society in protecting the environment.
Speaking at the National Environment Forum, Ale said this year’s theme, “Local Actions for Global Impact,” reflects the need for communities to take practical steps in the protection, restoration and sustainable management of Samoa’s natural resources.
He said climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution remain urgent challenges, and local action is part of Samoa’s contribution to wider global efforts.
The forum focused on work being carried out in biodiversity conservation, water resource management, marine reserves, mangrove restoration, waste management and renewable energy.
Ale said the day’s discussions recognised the contribution of local communities, young people and civil society groups in building resilience to climate change, disasters, biodiversity loss, waste and pollution.
He also referred to a tripartite agreement signed in 2025 between the Government of Samoa, through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and the Ministry of Women, Community and Social Development, and the United States Peace Corps.
Under that agreement, 11 Peace Corps volunteers have been mobilised to work in the environment sector with local communities, districts and district councils.
The Minister also congratulated the UNDP GEF Small Grants Programme for 21 years of community work in Samoa. He said 341 initiatives and projects had been approved and implemented, with more than US$6 million disbursed to date.
Ale acknowledged the support of development partners, including the Global Environment Facility, UNDP, the Government of Australia and the US Peace Corps, saying the Small Grants Programme remains an important mechanism for community engagement, leadership and environmental stewardship.
He said the Government remains committed to direct community access to funding and ensuring that support reaches communities alongside national environmental initiatives.
Based on the keynote address delivered by Hon. Ale Vena Ale at the National Environment Forum 2026, held at the Sheraton Hotel, Vaisigano, on Tuesday 19 May 2026.
