South Pacific Tourism Exchange 2026 Commits To A Single‑use Plastic Free Event

The Pacific Tourism Organisation is setting a clear benchmark for sustainable tourism leadership, announcing that the South Pacific Tourism Exchange 2026, taking place 25–26 March at Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort & Spa, will be delivered as a Single-Use Plastic (SUP) Free event.

By eliminating disposable plastics from one of the Pacific’s premier tourism marketplaces, SPTO is sending a strong signal to the industry that the future of Pacific tourism must protect the very oceans, landscapes, and communities that define the region’s appeal. This milestone reinforces SPTO’s commitment to environmental stewardship and aligns with Goal 4 of the Pacific Sustainable Tourism Policy Framework 2030, which calls for the progressive phase-out of single-use plastics across the tourism sector.

This announcement comes as SPTO partners with the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), through the Australian Government funded Pacific Ocean Litter Project (POLP), as a Regional Leader Sponsor for SPTE 2026. This timely partnership underscores the collective responsibility of Pacific agencies to protect fragile ecosystems while reimagining tourism with sustainability, resilience, and collaboration at its core.

The SUP‑free initiative targets items designed for single-use before disposal, including plastic water bottles, cutlery, plates, bowls, straws, cups, takeout containers, gift wraps, and plastic bags. By eliminating these items, SPTE 2026 will promote sustainable alternatives and set a precedent for future tourism events in the region.

This initiative builds on the joint work of SPTO and SPREP through POLP, including the development of a Standards and Certification Programme for phasing out SUPs in Pacific Island tourism industries. A dedicated Marketing and Communications Campaign for the programme will be launched at SPTE 2026, further supporting advocacy and awareness efforts across the sector.

SPTO Chief Executive Officer Christopher Cocker mentioned that by committing to a SUP‑free event, SPTE 2026 contributes to a cleaner, healthier Pacific and sets a benchmark for sustainable tourism practices across the region. This initiative is not only about one event—it is about shaping the future of Pacific tourism for generations to come.

“Delivering the South Pacific Tourism Exchange 2026 as a single-use plastic–free event demonstrates the Pacific tourism sector’s readiness to lead by example. SPTO believes that protecting our oceans and natural environments is not optional — it is fundamental to the future of our visitor economy. By working with regional partners to remove single-use plastics and promote responsible event practices, we are reinforcing the Pacific’s commitment to sustainable, climate-conscious tourism that benefits both our communities and our ecosystems,” Cocker said.

SPREP Director General Sefanaia Nawadra highlighted that tourism and ocean health are closely interconnected in the Pacific, and initiatives like this show how regional collaboration can translate sustainability commitments into practical action.

SPREP is pleased to continue its partnership with the SPTO and its membership through the SPTO’s Sustainable Tourism Programme. Our Pacific Ocean Litter Project enables SPTO to host a “Single Use Plastic Free SPTE in 2026.” It is important that Tourism as the largest economic sector in our region and its stakeholders continue to show not only economic but also social and environmental leadership and stewardship,” Mr Nawadra said.

“We can earn money and build livelihoods for our nations and communities while continuing to uphold our social responsibilities, conserve our natural capital and continue to sustainably develop this important sector of our economy.”

Trade single‑use plastics for sustainable substitutes—protect the paradise your guests travel the world to experience, and future‑proof your business. Join the growing number of Pacific tourism operators who are attracting conscious travellers and safeguarding our shared environment.