98% of This Country Is Ocean. This Is How They Protect It

The Samoa Government has launched a science-based and community-driven plan to effectively manage Samoa’s entire ocean, from the protection of important ecological habitats to economic growth derived from the ocean.

“Samoa is a large ocean state: 98% of our domain is ocean,” says Tuilaepa Aiono Sailele Malielegaoi, Prime Minister of Samoa. “Our waters hold exceptional marine habitats, from seamounts to biodiverse coral reefs, mangroves, and oceanic basins. These all contribute significantly to both the economy and the identity of the Samoan people. The Samoa Ocean Strategy will ensure the sustainable, effective and integrated management and conservation of these rich waters, not only for a resilient and prosperous Samoa now, but for generations to come.”

The Strategy aims at protecting 30% of Samoa’s ocean by 2025 which equates to 36,000 km² of fully protected ocean. The idea is to support marine spatial planning, sustainable fisheries, and the blue economy. “Samoa’s commitment to sustainably manage and protect their marine space benefits not only Samoa, but humanity,” says Ted Waitt, Chairman, and Founder of the Waitt Institute, the Waitt Foundation, and the Blue Prosperity Coalition.