The International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD), in collaboration with the Wildlife Conservation Society, J Hunter Pearls, and the Pacific Community (SPC) with support from the Canadian government, recently conducted a workshop on the Aqua Pearl project at the Holiday Inn.
Veronica Lo, a senior policy adviser at IISD, explained that the Aqua Pearl initiative aims to innovate aquaculture by promoting marine resources such as shellfish for both local use and export, in response to the dwindling fishing opportunities faced globally. Lo highlighted that one core aspect of the project involves the establishment of community-led farms, particularly in two villages on Vanua Levu. The intention is to engage approximately 150 households in each village to create a sustainable oyster harvesting business, providing these communities with an alternative livelihood.
Moreover, Lo noted the positive impact of local partners such as J Hunter Pearls, who have played a crucial role in enhancing biodiversity by documenting marine life in Vanua Levu and contributing to a healthier marine environment.
Looking ahead, the workshop aimed to outline the implementation of similar initiatives across Fiji and the broader Pacific region. The focus will be on gathering insights from the project, conducting policy analyses to identify opportunities for integrating nature-based strategies into aquaculture, and addressing critical issues such as food safety, biosecurity, and climate change adaptation.
This initiative not only seeks to revitalize local economies but also emphasizes the importance of environmental sustainability, fostering hope for a balanced approach to resource management.
In summary, the Aqua Pearl initiative is a promising effort to develop sustainable aquaculture practices that benefit local communities while enhancing marine biodiversity. The collaboration between various organizations exemplifies a forward-thinking approach that could inspire similar projects worldwide, promoting both economic development and ecological preservation.
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