Cook Islands Campaign to Cut Down Plastic Bag Pollution – Report to Second Session of UN Commission

Abstract

The Cook Islands are leading efforts to reduce plastic pollution, as reported to the second session of a UN commission on plastic waste. Since 2012, they’ve enforced single-use plastic bans and promoted zero-waste strategies. They joined 12 other Pacific nations in advocating for a strong, legally binding global plastics treaty. Domestically, the Cook Islands are drafting new laws to ban items like plastic straws and polystyrene containers and will introduce disposal fees to reduce waste. They also received $3 million in international funding to develop circular economy solutions such as reuse and eco-design.