Representatives from Pacific Island communities have issued a fervent call for greater adherence to the Law of the Sea, underlining the urgent necessity to safeguard marine ecosystems against the threats posed by deep-sea mining operations. This critical message emerged during a seminar hosted at Fiji National University, which centered on the relevance of Indigenous knowledge and the duty of protecting ocean resources.
Hawaiian academic Solomon Pili Kaho Ohalahala shed light on the precarious situation faced by Pacific islands, attributing some of the climate crisis to corporate interests in deep-sea mining. He expressed concern that the actions of these corporations are fueling the climate crisis and endangering marine environments, stating, “The climate crisis that is happening in terms of how we need to respond is being driven by the corporations that want to begin dredging our oceans.”
Simione Sevudredre, an Indigenous Knowledge Facilitator, emphasized the importance of respecting Pacific traditions, particularly the principle of ‘taboo’ that warns against harmful practices. Dr. Kaliova Ravuiwasa from Fiji National University further highlighted the necessity of passing down traditional knowledge to younger generations to empower them as custodians of Fiji’s fisheries and natural resources. He remarked, “It is really important for us… to understand their context. This helps us deliver the knowledge and skills we have.”
These discussions reflect a heightened awareness across the region about the pressing need for collaboration in protecting marine resources, resonating with recent remarks from Fiji’s Minister for Fisheries, Alitia Bainivalu. At a session of the Western and Central Fisheries Commission, Bainivalu underscored the significance of traditional knowledge in the sustainable management of fisheries, advocating for cooperative strategies to combat climate change and overfishing challenges.
In alignment with these views, the Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) has voiced serious concerns regarding the adverse effects of unregulated deep-sea mining on marine biodiversity and Indigenous communities. They are pushing for legal amendments to ensure Fiji’s legislative framework robustly defends its rich ecological heritage.
The community-driven push for sustainability illuminates a promising avenue for the Pacific Islands, where blending traditional practices with unified commitments can foster a future that values both the oceans and the communities that depend on them. By prioritizing environmental stewardship and supporting Indigenous rights, Pacific nations can nurture healthier marine ecosystems, ultimately enriching the lives of future generations.
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