Permanent Secretary for Climate Change Dr. Sivendra Michael has underscored the critical need for an integrated national data system during the National Workshop on Ocean Accounts in Fiji. This event aims to enhance Fiji’s capacity to collect concrete data essential for effective ocean management strategies. As Fiji engages in global negotiations to combat plastic pollution and strive for sustainable ocean management, Dr. Michael highlighted the necessity of establishing a robust national data system.
The workshop focuses on measuring the comprehensive value of Fiji’s oceans—not just financially, but also in terms of ecological and social contributions. Dr. Michael noted that understanding how marine ecosystems benefit local communities is vital, alongside recognizing the impact of human activities on these environments. Reliable data is essential for informing planning, budgeting, and investment decisions, helping Fiji track progress on its commitments to end plastic pollution and establish 30 percent of its marine areas as protected by 2030.
By integrating data across sectors such as fisheries, tourism, transport, waste, and conservation, Dr. Michael posited that the country could set a sustainable foundation for ocean governance. He emphasized the shift from planning to implementation and the importance of establishing clear principles in the ocean accounting model.
The workshop gathers representatives from various government ministries, academia, civil society, and the private sector to contribute to this initiative. This collaborative approach reflects the ambition of Fiji’s ongoing commitment to sustainable resource management and indicates a promising path forward for enhancing ocean health and resilience against the challenges of plastic pollution.
Fiji’s proactive stance is supported by similar efforts previously led by officials like Environment and Climate Change Minister Mosese Bulitavu, who has pushed for innovative measures to address environmental challenges, particularly plastic pollution. These collective initiatives show not only a commitment to protecting marine ecosystems but also a strong collaborative spirit among stakeholders aimed at building a sustainable future for Fiji’s oceans and communities.