Over 90,000 kilograms of waste stored in 29 containers, comprising both 20-foot and 40-foot units, are ready to be shipped off to New Zealand.

The waste was collected during the Titā ki te Titā kore project spearheaded by the National Environment Service (NES) in collaboration with the Cook Islands General Transport (CIGT).

The signature project collects legacy waste across Rarotonga, including the end-of-life vehicles, whiteware and electronic waste (e-waste).

In a statement, NES said the overwhelming support from the community, Punas and Government, has propelled this project to new records of legacy waste collection on the island.

“The positive feedback from all stakeholders including private households and commercial operators have been encouraging,” it said.

Based on the data collected from Matavera and Tupapa, most of the e-waste gathered primarily consisted of televisions screens, speakers and computers. Additionally, within the category of whiteware, fans (ceiling/standalone) and fridge’s/freezers were the popular items collected.

In Tupapa, a significant amount of electronic waste (e-waste) and whiteware has been collected for responsible disposal.

The Titā ki te Titā kore initiative is aimed at tackling the environmental and health risks posed by the improper disposal of whiteware, electronic waste (E-waste) and end-of-life vehicles (ELVs) in Rarotonga.

NES emphasises that this forward-looking initiative reflects the Cook Islands Government’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable waste management practices.

NES received funds for the 2023/24 and 2024/25 financial year appropriation to support the safe collection, removal, transportation and recycling of legacy waste. The issue of legacy waste is acknowledged by NES, as embedded to the 5-Year Strategic Framework, National Environment Policy 2022-32 and work plans under multiple Multilateral Environment Agreements.

Whilst the Titā ki te Titā kore programme will only apply to Rarotonga, a separate programme has been confirmed to be rolled out in the Pa Enua to tackle these same waste streams that have accumulated there. Further information on this will be released in due course.

The project will continue in early 2024, prioritising the remaining Punas of Takuvaine and Avatiu/Ruatonga. NES will update the public regarding the schedule and drop-off details shortly.

“We encourage residents in the remaining Punas to start preparing your waste and ensure items are clean and ready for drop-off,” NES said.

“With the high number of containers packed, availability of containers is becoming scarce hence we ask for your patience.

“NES thanks the hard work and dedication of the Punas and CIGT to produce a significant outcome of this project since its inception in August 2023.”