The Yomiuri Shimbun reports that the Japanese government plans to launch projects to support island nations in the South Pacific in their efforts to reduce waste and increase recycling, sources said. The government is considering launching such projects in 16 countries and territories belonging to the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) by sending experts and constructing waste processing and recycling facilities through official development assistance.

The creation of a system in which boats are sent regularly to the member countries and regions to collect waste is also under consideration.

An increase in dumped vehicles and used plastic bottles have become common problems for Pacific Island nations such as Palau and Fiji because of their limited land space, limiting space for landfill. The government hopes to coordinate with PIF countries on specific measures during their meeting scheduled to be held on the sidelines of the PIF general meeting in August in Papua New Guinea