Research Article

Recycling Policy and Hazardous Waste Management in Samoa: Pathways Toward a Circular Economy in Small Island Developing States

Sarah Lim 1 * , Wei-Ling Hsu 2
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1 Marianas High School, Saipan 96950, USA2 School of Civil Engineering of Jiaying University, Meizhou 514015, China* Corresponding Author
International Journal of Environmental Sustainability and Protection, 6(3), September 2026, 28-34, https://doi.org/10.35745/ijesp2026v06.03.0004
Submitted: 20 March 2026, Published: 30 August 2026
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ABSTRACT

Samoa, as one of the Small Island Developing States (SIDS), faces a challenge for solid waste management. Despite legislative efforts such as the Waste Management Act 2010 and the 2019 ban on single-use plastics, Samoa struggles with low recycling rates, landfill saturation, and logistical isolation. This research aims to examine the current recycling landscape in Samoa by identifying the geographic, economic, and behavioral barriers to effective waste management. By analyzing successful cases from other SIDS and developed island nations, including Palau’s Container Deposit Scheme and Taiwan’s community-based recycling model, a multi-tiered framework for Samoa is proposed. Recommendations made in this study include the implementation of a national Container Deposit Scheme, the strengthening of public-private partnerships, and the localization of circular economy principles through village-level governance. While government policy provides a foundation, the integration of civilian-level engagement and regional shipping partnerships is essential for a sustainable future.
Keywords: Samoa, Waste management, Waste recycling, Small island developing states, E-waste, Community-based recycling

CITATION (APA)

Lim, S., & Hsu, W.-L. (2026). Recycling Policy and Hazardous Waste Management in Samoa: Pathways Toward a Circular Economy in Small Island Developing States. International Journal of Environmental Sustainability and Protection, 6(3), 28-34. https://doi.org/10.35745/ijesp2026v06.03.0004

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