Samoa's Ocean Strategy: Preserving Our Lifeline for the Future
Channel: Waitt Institute
Date: 2023-06-13

The ocean is the source of life in Samoa. It has sustained Samoa and its people for generations and remains critical to the economy, culture, and wellbeing of the nation. However, the ocean faces unprecedented threats from global climate change, unsustainable fisheries and development, and pollution. The Samoa Ocean Strategy, or SOS, is the national policy framework that seeks to sustainably manage Samoa’s vast ocean and marine resources for the well-being of all Samoans now, and into the future. 

This short film, "Samoa's Ocean Strategy: Preserving Our Lifeline for the Future," we delves into the intimate relationship between the Pacific Islanders of Samoa and their surrounding ocean - a bond that has defined their existence and nourished their communities for generations. The film highlights the vital role of coral reefs as the backbone of the ocean, holding both ecological and economic riches beyond measure. It introduces the Samoa Ocean Strategy as a groundbreaking national initiative aiming to safeguard the ocean's sustainability. This involves blending traditional knowledge with modern practices in fishing and marine resource utilization, emphasizing the powerful impact of marine protected areas that have allowed coral recovery post natural disasters.

The documentary puts forth a hopeful vision of resilient, healthy oceans and sustainable livelihoods for all Samoans, with the ultimate goal of inspiring the next generation to become devoted guardians of their oceanic inheritance. This film underscores the necessity of ocean conservation, not just for Samoa, but as a global imperative. It is a compelling narrative of survival, resilience, and hope for a sustainable future.

This film was made in partnership with Conservation International and the Government of Samoa. 

Video credit: Kyle Roepke, Sam Kretchner, and Admiration LLC