Development activities are encroaching upon mangrove areas, according to Joeli Veitayaki, a strategic advisor for Blue Prosperity Fiji. He noted a decline in mangrove coverage in the North over recent years, attributing this to land reclamation efforts.
Mr. Veitayaki pointed out that in locations like Labasa, including regions near the Galaxy Hotel along with newly established residential and industrial zones, there is a noticeable shift towards exploiting mangrove areas for development.
While he acknowledges that development can boost the economy, he expressed concerns regarding its environmental implications during a Wildlife Conservation Society workshop. “I am sometimes very sceptical about development because the long-term costs of such activities can be substantial,” he stated.
He emphasized the critical role of mangroves, which serve as natural barriers against tidal surges and support marine ecosystems. “If we are removing the mangroves, we are endangering marine life,” he warned, advocating for stronger legal protections to tackle this pressing issue.