Virtual Stakeholder Consultations on Standards and Certification Programme concludes

Over the past two and a half weeks the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) Division of Sustainable Tourism (DST) successfully concluded its virtual stakeholder consultations on the Standards and Certification Programme, aimed at aiding the Pacific Tourism Sector in phasing out single-use plastics.

This initiative is a crucial component of the Pacific Ocean Leader Project (POLP), an Australian-funded regional project executed by the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP). The consultation drew over 100 stakeholders from 13 Pacific Island Countries, along with partners from outside the region.

The POLP project focuses on reducing single-use plastics in coastal environments. One of the outcomes to achieve this is involving target sectors and industries like tourism to adopt plastic reduction measures, thereby promoting sustainable tourism and protecting marine ecosystems. During the consultations, participants engaged in discussions on several key issues:

• Barriers Faced by Tourism and Hospitality Operators: Emphasis was placed on the challenges encountered by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) with limited resources in phasing out single-use plastics.
• Access to Safe and Sustainable Alternatives: Discussions highlighted the complexities of supply chains, cost implications, and market demand for sustainable substitute products.
• Harmonisation and Avoidance of Duplication of Standards: Participants underscored the importance of creating a cohesive approach to tourism standards programmes across the region

• Shift in mindset and behavioural change: Participants identified the importance of heightening educational and advocacy efforts in supporting tourism operators to embrace sustainable business models and offerings.

One-on-one meetings with stakeholders and partners and an online survey have been commissioned to gather additional feedback. A Toolkit will be developed to support  the implementation phase.

SPTO CEO Christopher Cocker acknowledged the partnership with the SPREP highlighting the significance of the initiative  in our shared mission to combat plastic pollution in the Pacific.

He said the challenges of phasing out single-use plastics, was not merely an environmental imperative but a vital element of restoring cultural and community leadership in looking after our heritage.

“Our commitment to this cause is unwavering, and we are excited about the positive impact this initiative will have on both the environment and the local communities who depend on a healthy ocean for their livelihoods,” Mr Cocker said.

“The recent stakeholder consultations on the Standards and Certification Programme mark a pivotal step in our collective journey towards a more sustainable and resilient Pacific Tourism Sector. We call upon all stakeholders to join us in this campaign. Your support and engagement are crucial in driving this initiative forward and ensuring its successful implementation. Together, we can safeguard our coastal environments, support our local economies, and set a global benchmark for sustainable tourism practices.”