News - Nov 7, 2024 Strategic Pathway to Improved Waste Management in Niue

In a significant step towards strengthening efforts in waste avoidance, improved recycling practices, and sustainable waste management, the Niue Department of Environment has completed its Integrated Solid and Hazardous Waste Management Strategy 2024-2034. The Strategy aims to enhance environmental protection and promote initiatives for waste avoidance, repair, reuse, and recycling.

Director of Environment, Mr Haden Talagi, announced the vision of the strategy: “A clean and pristine Niue, for all generations.” He declared a 10-year commitment to sustainable waste management that respects Niuean traditions and the natural environment, both now and for the future.

“The strategy was developed in consultation with several departments of the National Government, Village Councils, our invaluable NGOs, businesses, and community leaders, all of whom emphasized that protecting human and environmental health—including the water lens and marine environment—is of utmost importance,” said Mr. Talagi.

“Additionally, these groups expressed that waste management is a whole-of-society responsibility, and that a united and collaborative approach is fundamental to the successful implementation of the strategy. Our strategy reflects these views and aligns with national, regional, and international agreements. It provides all Niueans with a clear path forward as we seek to protect our unique environment from waste-related pollution now and for all current and future generations.”

“We have taken a practical and forward-thinking approach to developing our action plan, enabling us to address immediate issues while effectively planning for future priorities. This approach also allows us to be responsive to opportunities as they arise, particularly in establishing partnerships with key donors to fund specific actions.”

The Niue Department of Environment invites its communities and donor partners to “embark on this strategic journey with us, as we continually strive to implement sustainable approaches to waste management that not only protect, but also enhance the world in which we live”.

The Department of Environment also expresses gratitude to SPREP PacWaste Plus for their support in developing the strategy, which was completed with consulting assistance from Tonkin and Taylor International.