Immediate measures are necessary to protect our natural environment, according to Dr. Grethel Aguilar Rojas, the director general of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Dr. Rojas is participating in a four-day conference hosted by the IUCN titled “Reconnecting, Rebuilding and Rethinking Conservation for Resilient Oceania” at the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat in Suva.
Dr. Rojas highlighted that the discussions focus on the critical need for nature conservation and its vital role in addressing climate change. She stated, “The Pacific is experiencing the impacts of climate change, and communities along with governments are vocally demanding immediate action. This is not merely a crisis; it is a matter of survival for the people of the Pacific.”
The conference aims to explore potential solutions that nature conservation can offer, with an emphasis on nature-based solutions that can effectively reduce risks associated with climate change in Oceania.
A key point of discussion is the significance of collaborating with indigenous peoples and local communities. Dr. Rojas noted the importance of traditional knowledge in Oceania, emphasizing its integration with scientific knowledge to achieve impactful results.
“It is crucial that we acknowledge the traditional knowledge of Oceania globally, as it has long held solutions for conserving natural resources to benefit humanity,” she added.
The discussions will continue to focus on the future of conservation in the region, the challenges posed by climate change, and strategies to empower communities and indigenous peoples. Dr. Rojas aims to support Oceania in amplifying its voice against the climate change crisis.