Fiji’s ambitious National Tree-Planting Program has made significant strides, with over 19 million trees and mangroves successfully planted across 16,500 hectares in just six years. Minister for Fisheries and Forestry, Alitia Bainivalu, highlighted this achievement in Parliament, emphasizing the nation’s progress toward its goal of planting 30 million trees over a 15-year period.
In addition to the tree-planting efforts, Bainivalu reported that biodiversity conservation is also advancing, with 10,000 seedlings prepared for planting in forestry nurseries. These initiatives are part of Fiji’s commitment to global climate action, particularly through the REDD+ initiative, which is backed by the World Bank’s Forest Carbon Partnership Facility. This program is vital for maintaining the country’s forests as essential carbon sinks, ultimately enhancing climate resilience.
The forestry sector is crucial for Fiji’s economy, contributing more than $140 million while fostering job creation and rural development. Looking to the future, the ministry is committed to achieving outcomes that will strengthen governance, sustainability, and economic opportunities for all citizens.
Alongside these forestry initiatives, ongoing efforts to enhance the fisheries sector, such as the National Fisheries Policy and Aquaculture Development Plan, aim to ensure continuous growth. The ministry is in the process of reviewing important regulations to better manage coastal fisheries and meet emerging challenges.
These developments not only demonstrate Fiji’s proactive approach towards the sustainable management of natural resources but also reflect a hopeful outlook as the nation embraces its environmental responsibilities alongside economic growth. The active involvement and support from the community will be crucial in these initiatives, promising lasting benefits for both the economy and the environment.
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