Sarah Ferguson has reminisced about her trip to Australasia earlier this month by sharing some photos from an engagement in Samoa to mark International Women’s Day.
Prince Andrew’s ex-wife, 64, took to Instagram yesterday to share photos from the Women of Waste event, which aims to create safe, inclusive and diverse livelihoods and workplaces on the South Pacific island nation.
“I am honored to attend the launch of Women of Waste in Samoa and learn that plastic pollution is not just an environmental crisis; it is a threat to life itself,” Sarah wrote in the caption.
One image showed the Duchess of York, wearing a purple print dress and a traditional streamer necklace, speaking from the stage at the event.
In other photos, Sarah posed alongside other women and next to a promotional banner highlighting how the initiative is breaking down barriers.
Sarah Ferguson attends the launch of Women of Waste in Samoa on International Women’s Day
“Pacific islands like Samoa, with their unique strengths and vulnerabilities, can be the torchbearers of collective action towards a planet free of plastic waste,” the royal family’s Instagram post continued.
‘What an inspiring morning with these amazing women and youth leaders.’
Waste has become a major concern for the country; More than 140,000 tons of solid waste are dumped in Samoa every year.
Not all of them end up in landfill: an estimated 1,900 tons of plastic waste leaks into the environment.
This uncontrolled waste threatens the health of Samoa’s ecosystems, which are essential for food, water and air supplies.
The division of labor often reflects gender stereotypes, and this is clearly visible in the waste management sector.
However, more and more women are emerging as leaders in this field and taking action to defend those around them.
The Women of Waste task force is committed to creating safe, inclusive and diverse employment opportunities and work environments in Samoa.
Sarah looked radiant as she posed with several women at the event
Sarah posed next to a promotional banner highlighting how the initiative is breaking down barriers
The Duchess of York wore a purple print dress and a traditional streamer necklace
The aim is to identify and address biases and barriers to employment within the waste management sector.
It is the first formal initiative of its kind in the Pacific Islands.
Speaking at the launch of Women of Waste, which took place on International Women’s Day, the Duchess said: ‘The older generations of which I am a part bear a huge responsibility in damaging our environment.
“It is our collective responsibility to take action for current and future generations.
“I want to be a voice on the world stage to raise awareness of Samoa, the expectations and needs of their people, as well as their energy and actions for change.”
The launch brought together civil society organisations, private companies, entrepreneurs, government officials and development partners at the Taumeasina Island Resort.