This report presents the assessment of the Indian Ocean Islands, one of two oceanic assessments conducted by the GIWA. The region covers the Island States of Comoros, Mauritius, Madagascar and Seychelles and the vast oceanic expanses between them. The most important transboundary concern is pollution, particularly solid wastes, which end up in the coastal and oceanic environments causing degradation of ecosystems and considerable economic impacts. Policy options to address the root causes of solid waste pollution are presented and their efficiency, equitability and practicality are discussed.

The purpose of this brochure is to introduce a life cycle approach as one means to help us recognize opportunities, balance opportunities with risks and make choices that contribute value to our economies, our natural environments, and our communities. Reading this brochure will help you understand what a life cycle approach means and how individuals, businesses, and governments take that approach. It also illustrates the benefits and suggests where you can find out more!