Fiji is advancing its commitment to sustainable ocean management by enhancing its ocean accounting system, which is designed to measure the economic, environmental, and social value of marine resources. Minister for Environment and Climate Change Mosese Bulitavu led the Fijian delegation at the Ocean Accounts Exchange held in Costa Rica, a significant global gathering leading up to the UN Ocean Conference scheduled for June.
The country views ocean accounting as an essential instrument for developing policies that extend beyond traditional GDP indicators. By amalgamating environmental and economic data, Fiji aims to improve decision-making processes that conserve marine ecosystems while securing long-term advantages for local communities. This initiative supports Fiji’s National Ocean Policy, which includes the ambitious goal of protecting 30% of its Exclusive Economic Zone by 2030.
During his remarks, Minister Bulitavu noted that ocean accounting represents more than just a method of data collection; it embodies a transformative strategy for how Fiji values and manages its critical natural resources. He highlighted ongoing collaborations with institutions such as the University of the South Pacific and the Global Ocean Accounts Partnership to assess the significance of ecosystems like mangroves.
The recent four-day event in Costa Rica provided a platform for Fiji to reinforce international partnerships, refine conservation strategies, and prioritize ocean governance within its broader developmental framework.
This proactive approach aligns with Fiji’s ongoing journey towards sustainable resource management and signifies hope for better engagement in marine conservation. With a focus on collaborative environmental stewardship, Fiji’s leadership in ocean accounting could inspire similar efforts across the Pacific region, creating a more sustainable future for marine ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.
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