The International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD), in collaboration with the Wildlife Conservation Society, J Hunter Pearls, and the Pacific Community (SPC) with the support of the Canadian government, recently organized a workshop centered on the Aqua Pearl project at the Holiday Inn.
According to Veronica Lo, a senior policy adviser at IISD, the initiative aims to enhance aquaculture by expanding the use of marine resources, such as shellfish, for both local consumption and export, particularly in light of declining global fishing opportunities. Lo explained that the project encompasses multiple components, one of which involves establishing community-led farms in two villages in Vanua Levu. The goal is to engage around 150 households from each village in developing an oyster harvesting business, providing alternative livelihood options for these communities.
Lo highlighted the role of local partners like J Hunter Pearls, noting that they have served as biodiversity aggregators by successfully quantifying the marine life in Vanua Levu and enhancing the overall marine environment. The workshop’s next phase includes implementing similar projects throughout Fiji and the Pacific.
The team aims to gather insights from this project, conduct policy analyses, and identify ways to incorporate nature-based strategies into aquaculture. This approach will focus on various aspects such as food safety, biosecurity, climate adaptation, and replicating successful methods used in other regions of Fiji.
This initiative not only aims to address the challenges posed by diminishing fish stocks but also empowers local communities by fostering sustainable economic opportunities. By focusing on biodiversity and developing alternative livelihoods, Aqua Pearl promises to create a positive impact on both the environment and the local economies in Fiji.
In summary, the Aqua Pearl project represents a proactive step towards sustaining marine ecosystems and enhancing community well-being in the face of global challenges, illustrating a commitment to innovative and sustainable development practices.
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