The Cabinet has approved the initiation of the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) – Early Action Support Project, which will receive funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF).
A statement from the Office of the Prime Minister noted that the GEF is the largest multilateral trust fund dedicated to helping developing nations invest in environmental sustainability. It also plays a key role in supporting various international environmental agreements, including those related to biodiversity, climate change, chemicals, and desertification.
Fiji will utilize this project to evaluate its key biodiversity areas as outlined in the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) for 2020-2025, ensuring alignment with the new biodiversity targets set by the Global Biodiversity Framework.
The initiative will take an inclusive approach involving both society and government, facilitated through an Inter-Ministerial NBSAP dialogue and consultations with important stakeholders including government entities, civil society, NGOs, regional organizations, resource owners, and academic institutions.
The project is expected to be completed by February 28, 2025.