News & Updates

4 June 2025 — Apia, Samoa - Samoa becomes one of the first Pacific nations to legally protect 30% of its ocean, ahead of the 2025 UN Ocean Conference.​​​​​​​​​​​​​ Hon. Toeolesulsulu Cedric Pose Salesa Schuster, credit of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment Samoa became one of the first Pacific Island nations to adopt a legally binding Marine Spatial Plan — a milestone step to fully protect 30% and ensure sustainable management of 100% of its vast ocean 120,000

24 October 2024 — Apia, Samoa - Created by and for the people of Samoa, the Marine Spatial Plan will support the sustainable management of Samoa's 120,000 square kilometer Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) to bolster ocean health and support sustainable economic development.​​​​​​​​​​​​​ Hon. Toeolesulusulu Cedric Schuster, Samoa’s Minister of Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, Cherie Prothro-Shea, Managing Director of the Waitt Foundation, Dr. Richard Jeo, Senior Vi

Protecting Samoa’s Special Unique Marine Areas, where endangered whale species migrate, allows Samoa’s culture and marine ecosystems to thrive for generations to come. Samoa is home to several endangered whale species, which play significant roles in indigenous Pacific culture. For centuries, these whales have been believed to be totem species, known indigenously as guardian spirits that have guided ancestors safely while navigating the Pacific Ocean. Recognizing the imp

In Samoa, the ocean is our identity. It is our past, present, and future. The ocean connects us and keeps us deeply rooted in our culture and our history as voyagers, islanders, and people of the sea. The ocean has always been known to protect our livelihoods and food security and contribute to Samoa’s economy. Because the biodiversity and productivity of Samoa’s marine ecosystems underpin the resources that people rely on, protecting these ecosystems has been important in en