Towards a Roadmap for a Plastic-Free Small Island Developing States

In the contemporary era, plastic pollution is regarded as a significant environmental issue, given its deleterious effects on the ecosystem and, consequently, on human health. The proposed roadmap delineates the steps and measures to address marine plastic pollution, and strongly urges the participation of various key stakeholders, including policymakers, scientists, community members, non-governmental organisations, and other organisations that are impacted or can help to enforce policies. This is to be done with consideration for the specificities and challenges faced by Small Island Developing States. To develop this roadmap, several key elements are essential, including conducting plastic audits, implementing circular economies, formulating strategies and actions, establishing regulatory frameworks, and monitoring progress. The implementation plan comprises a series of actions which have been categorised into three distinct timeframes: short, mid and long term. In conclusion, it is imperative that Small Island Developing States pursue international collaboration for the effective implementation of the roadmap, given that marine debris is being deposited on their shores despite its genesis in distant locations.