Comoros beyond the postcard

Protecting paradise from plastic

By UNDP Water and Ocean Programme

May 21^st, 2024

By Snehal Sonej, UNDP Comoros Resident Representative and Houmed M'Saidie, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Environment, Tourism and Handicrafts of Comoros

The Comoros archipelago, a jewel of the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its breathtaking beauty. Mohéli Island, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, boasts some of the world's richest marine biodiversity, where ancient green turtles nest on pristine beaches and humpback whales grace its waters. Yet, behind this idyllic facade lies a pressing challenge: plastic waste.

This is the unseen aftermath of a cyclone. Plastic waste, swept from inland to the coast, highlights the urgent need for better waste management and reduced plastic consumption. Photo: UNDP Ocean Innovation Challenge/K.Gudczinski.

Like many Small Island Developing States (SIDS), Comoros grapples with the scourge of plastic pollution. Limited resources, geographic isolation, and the prevalence of imported goods create a complex waste management landscape. The pristine shores of Mohéli, while teeming with life, are not immune to this threat. Illegal dumping and waste fires pose risks to both human health and the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem.

Witnessing the majestic green turtles nesting on Moheli's beaches, one can't help but wonder: How long will this natural wonder endure if we don't tackle the plastic crisis? It's a strong reminder of the urgency we face in balancing our need for development with the protection of our natural heritage. But there is hope. In 2021, Comoros became part of the groundbreaking UNDP Ocean Innovation Challenge, a global initiative funded by Sweden and Norway that empowers communities with the tools to address ocean-related challenges. Through this project and the guidance of the Country Office, Comoros has successfully laid the groundwork for a sustainable plastic and aluminium buy-back center on Mohéli. This innovative solution is intended not only to tackle plastic waste but also to generate green jobs and foster a culture of environmental stewardship.

Baby green turtles heading to shore to start its long journey.

The journey has not been easy. We've encountered setbacks, learned valuable lessons, and witnessed firsthand the power of community engagement and collaboration. The tireless efforts of the Comoros National Parks Agency, the National Waste Management Authority (ANGD), local government and countless local organizations have been instrumental in this endeavor.

Now, we are poised to build upon this foundation. With the continued effort of UNDP, the Government of Comoros, the National Waste Management Agency (ANGD), and new support from the Global Environment Facility, UNEP, Parley for Oceans, and private sector group Pegasus Capital Advisors, Comoros is forging a path towards a sustainable future through a series of new initiatives, including the ISLANDS Project, the TWENex Project, the Blue and Green Islands Integrated Programme (BGI-IP), and the Comoros Integrated Waste Management Alliance. However, we need continued global support and investment to ensure the long-term success of these efforts.

Let us remember that the fight against plastic pollution is a fight for the future of our planet. Whether you're visiting a remote island paradise or your local beach, every action counts. Let us all be more conscientious about the plastic we consume and dispose of, for the sake of our oceans, our communities, and the incredible biodiversity we are so fortunate to share this planet with.

Read this blog in French.

At the 4th International Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS4), UNDP is showcasing successful initiatives and innovative solutions for a resilient future. Join us for the virtual side event on May 28th, 8:30-9:40am EDT/New York, to explore the power of ocean innovation in SIDS and LDCs, featuring the launch of our latest cohort of ocean innovators. If you are attending SIDS4 in person, learn how UNDP's Blue and Green Island Integrated Platform (BGI-IP) is driving sustainable development in SIDS through digitalization and sustainable finance. Don't miss this opportunity to engage with UNDP and global leaders, and discover the transformative potential of SIDS innovation.

UNDP's Ocean Innovation Challenge (OIC) is accelerating progress towards SDG14 by supporting innovative solutions for ocean conservation and a sustainable blue economy. With funding from Sweden (through the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency - Sida) and Norway (through the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation - Norad), the OIC identifies, finances, and mentors entrepreneurs with replicable and scalable approaches to coastal and ocean restoration.

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