Development is increasingly encroaching on mangrove areas, as highlighted by Joeli Veitayaki, a strategic advisor for Blue Prosperity Fiji. He noted that there has been a significant decline in mangrove swamps in northern regions, particularly due to land reclamation efforts.
Veitayaki observed that in locations such as Labasa, near the Galaxy Hotel and new residential and industrial developments, there is a noticeable trend of construction impinging on mangrove ecosystems. During his address at a Wildlife Conservation Society workshop, he acknowledged the economic benefits of development but raised concerns about its detrimental effects on the environment.
He expressed skepticism about the long-term implications of such developments, emphasizing that the costs could be considerable. Veitayaki underscored the importance of mangroves, which serve as natural barriers against tidal surges and support marine biodiversity. He warned that the removal of mangroves poses a serious threat to marine life.
To safeguard Fiji’s marine ecosystem, he called for enhanced legal measures to tackle the ongoing challenges related to mangrove destruction.