The iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) has announced a new Conservation Policy aimed at enhancing the sustainable management and protection of Fiji’s natural environment. This comprehensive framework, as stated by TLTB chief executive officer Solomoni Nata, is designed to preserve Fiji’s biodiversity and ecosystems for future generations while offering clear guidelines for managing conservation leases on iTaukei lands.
The policy emphasizes sustainable land use practices, supports efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and opens avenues for landowners and stakeholders to engage in environmental conservation initiatives. Nata expressed TLTB’s commitment to contributing to global efforts against climate change, protecting endangered species, and conserving ecosystems at risk due to land development.
Key elements of the Conservation Policy include:
1. Clear Guidelines for Conservation Leases
2. Alignment with Global Sustainability Goals
3. Support for Landowners
4. Collaboration with National and International Agencies
5. Market-based Solutions and Transparency
The TLTB’s approach involved extensive consultations with government agencies, NGOs, academic institutions, and landowners to ensure the policy meets various stakeholders’ needs. In a notable addition, TLTB also introduced an enhancement to the special conditions on Fiji Pine leases, which includes a seven percent stumpage fee on fuelwood harvested, a move aimed at clarifying financial arrangements and preventing disputes.
This initiative supports the government’s Fiji Pine project, which has made significant strides in rehabilitating dry grasslands while benefiting landowners financially. In addition to lease payments, landowners will also receive community development funds that support local education, infrastructure projects, and rural electrification.
The new policy not only reflects TLTB’s dedication to sustainable development but also fosters economic growth and community empowerment among iTaukei landowners. This collaborative approach offers a hopeful insight into the potential for enhancing both the environment and the livelihoods of local communities in Fiji.
In summary, TLTB’s new Conservation Policy marks a significant step towards a sustainable future for Fiji’s natural heritage and the iTaukei people, promising a pathway to balance economic prosperity with environmental stewardship.
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