In order to meet the emissions reduction target to achieve the reduction of 2.5 million tons of carbon-dioxide over the next five years, we need to plant more trees.
This was highlighted by the Permanent Secretary for Forests, Pene Baleinabuli at the REDD+ (reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries) Environmental Stewardship Inter-Faith Based Organization Leaders Awareness Forum at the Pacific Regional Seminary in Suva this morning.
“The aim for Fiji is to plant 4 million trees in four years, we want to make sure that this initiative is taken on and made a constant part of our daily lives.”
Mr. Baleinabuli said part of the four millions trees plan is to get the communities involved and actively engage with them.
“The Ministry of Forests wants to establish nurseries around the country where we will invite members of the community to look after them.”
He said that the Ministry will build the nurseries and will train the people to look after them.
“When the seedlings are ready, the Ministry will purchase those seedlings which would become a form of economic activity,” he said.
“It is a source of livelihood for our communities and that is an area I will ask everyone here to empower and encourage people in the communities to consider.”
Mr. Baleinabuli added that with Fiji being a small country it would be easier to manage conservation efforts well compared to larger countries.
“I believe that religious organizations in Fiji wield a lot of significant influence in Society and because of that, you could help in protecting our environment.”
“What we are trying to do in this talanoa session is to also hear from you on how you want us to work together to help protect the natural environment for Fiji.”
The objective of the discussion is to create awareness of Fiji's National REDD+ Program amongst the interfaith based organizational leaders.