Fiji must protect its bio-diversity because of the nation’s dependence on it says permanent secretary Fisheries and Forests Commander Viliame Naupoto.
Commander Naupoto said protecting our bio-diversity is essentially preserving our culture, values and tradition.
He made the comments during the launch of the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan Framework 2011 to 2014 for Fiji.
The International Year of Biodiversity Communication and Action Plan for the next five years was also launched last week together with the framework to enable effective compliance to obligations under the convention on bological diversity.
“The five-year implementation framework is a result of a consultative process that had evolved since 1997 when the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan was formulated,” Commander Naupoto said.
“The implementation framework and the communications strategy calls for a more integrated approach towards conservation and sustainable development efforts in Fiji.”
The two documents will provide sharing and reporting of decisions and information among partners.
Commander Naupoto said the seven thematic areas identified in the Implementation Framework would address key threats on Fiji’s biodiversity.
The seven areas cover:
- Forest Conversion
- Inshore Fisheries
- Inland Waters
- Coastal development
- Invasive alien species
- Species conservation
- Protected Areas
“Government is grateful to all our partners - the NGOs, corporate bodies, individuals and academic institutions in involving themselves in the challenges of developing this strategic plan that will enable citizens of this country to better respond to growing threats to Fiji’s biodiversity,” Commander Naupoto said.
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