The Kingdom of Tonga is launching an ambitious environmental initiative called the Clean-Up Tonga Campaign 2025. Led by the Ministry of Tourism, this nationwide effort seeks to boost the country's reputation as a sustainable tourism destination while promoting community involvement and environmental responsibility.
Prominent sites like Ha’atafu Beach, Halaika Beach, and the Nuku’alofa Waterfront will play a central role in this campaign, highlighting Tonga’s dedication to preserving its natural beauty for both locals and tourists.
A Collaborative Initiative for a Cleaner Tonga
The campaign launched on January 7, 2025, featuring a series of clean-up activities throughout Tongatapu. Under the leadership of Viliami Takau, the Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry, and with the support of ministry staff, the initiative focused on key locations such as Ha’atafu Beach, Halaika Beach, the Hihifo District, the Tongatapu 10 Constituency, and the Nuku’alofa Waterfront along Vuna Road. These sites, celebrated for their natural beauty and importance to local communities, have come to represent Tonga’s commitment to environmental conservation.
A key component of the campaign is the NO PLASTIC awareness programme, which aims to reduce single-use plastics and foster sustainable practices within the community. This initiative supports Tonga’s wider environmental objectives, as detailed in the National Single-Use Plastics Roadmap, which aims to remove harmful plastics like bottles, bags, and polystyrene containers from the country’s land and waters.
Enhancing Community Engagement
Understanding the value of community involvement, the Ministry of Tourism has reintroduced the Tonga Annual National Village Clean-Up Competition. This initiative encourages villages throughout Tonga, including the Far Niuas (Niuatoputapu and Niuafo’ou), to participate in regular clean-up efforts. Villages will be evaluated through inspections, and the winners will be celebrated at the Annual Royal Agriculture, Fisheries, and Tourism & Trade Show, which takes place in July or August. This programme not only promotes cleanliness but also cultivates a sense of pride and ownership within local communities.
The government's dedication to environmental sustainability is exemplified by the launch of a Monthly Inter-Government Ministries Clean-Up Campaign. Approved by the Tongan Cabinet on March 28, 2025, this initiative requires all ministries to spend the last Friday of each month cleaning their assigned areas. This collaborative effort fosters cooperation among agencies, enhances waste management, and establishes a national benchmark for environmental responsibility.
Promoting Sustainable Tourism
Tourism is essential to Tonga’s economy, and safeguarding the nation’s natural environment is crucial for maintaining its status as a distinctive island destination. The Clean-Up Tonga Campaign 2025 goes beyond simply picking up litter; it aims to foster a culture of environmental stewardship and community pride. By engaging local communities and government agencies, the campaign seeks to establish a sustainable tourism model that benefits both residents and visitors.
The campaign is spearheaded by the Beautification and Tourism Sites Development Division of the Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Department of Environment, Tonga Waste Authority, Ports Authority, MEIDECC, local businesses, churches, and community organisations. This collaborative effort highlights the shared commitment needed to create a cleaner and greener Tonga.
Looking Ahead: A Greener Future for Tonga
As the Clean-Up Tonga Campaign 2025 moves forward, the Ministry of Tourism envisions a cleaner, more environmentally friendly Tonga that continues to draw visitors with its stunning landscapes and warm hospitality. This campaign is a rallying call for everyone—government, private sector, and civil society—to take responsibility for shaping Tonga’s future as a sustainable island destination.
By fostering ongoing collaboration and dedication, Tonga aims to become a regional leader in environmental stewardship and sustainable tourism. The success of this initiative will not only improve the nation’s environmental health but also ensure that future generations can appreciate and benefit from Tonga’s unique natural heritage.
