Fiji’s National Environment Council (NEC) has reconvened for the first time in four years, focusing on the pressing issues surrounding the illegal trade of wildlife products and non-compliance with regulations protecting endangered species. This momentous meeting brought together key representatives from various sectors, including government ministries, non-governmental organizations, and academia.
During the gathering, reports highlighted troubling instances of endangered species being illegally sold in local pawn shops and the unregulated trade of flora from orchid farms. Dr. Sivendra Michael, the Permanent Secretary for Environment, voiced concerns over businesses operating without the necessary permits, emphasizing the urgency for the Council to take action.
The NEC was established under the Environment Management Act of 2005 and acts as Fiji’s primary environmental decision-making body. The delay in meetings was due to factors such as changes in government leadership and the absence of a permanent secretary. In preparation for this gathering, all seven technical steering committees, which address various environmental issues including waste management and invasive species, were reactivated.
Notably, the Ministry of Environment reported significant progress over the last 20 months, refocusing efforts on reviving the NEC and preparing crucial decision papers. Among the items discussed, Fiji’s commitment to protect 30 percent of its marine areas by 2030 and the introduction of the first Environmental Trust Fund Guidelines were highlighted. The meeting is expected to endorse eight decision papers and two informational papers, which will include advancing the Invasive Alien Species National Action Plan to Parliament.
The Ministry expressed its commitment to regular meetings of the Council to strengthen environmental governance and accelerate responses to urgent ecological challenges. This revitalization reflects not only a renewed focus on conservation but also offers hope for a collaborative approach to addressing environmental degradation in Fiji.
Overall, Fiji’s proactive stance and commitment to strengthening environmental protections and governance suggest a hopeful trajectory for the nation as it works to ensure a sustainable future for both its ecosystems and its people.