A regular update of IUCN news in the Oceania Region: June 2011

The man who teaches for nature

Nobody knows better the importance of shaping young minds to value their islands natural bounties then Professor Randy Thaman who has spent over 37 years teaching at the University of the South Pacific (USP), an IUCN Member. 

Australia’s Ningaloo Coast declared World Heritage Site

 The Ningaloo Coast in Australia was added onto the World Heritage list on June 25, following recommendations from IUCN. IUCN, the independent advisory body on nature to UNESCO, presented the findings of its comprehensive evaluations of the natural values of 13 nominated sites to the World Heritage Committee. 

Pacific financing institutions agree to take on energy efficiency loan scheme

Members of the Association of Development Financing Institutions in the Pacific (ADFIP) have unanimously agreed to take on board energy efficiency and solar photovoltaic loan schemes into their regional portfolio, following recommendations from IUCN Oceania.

Mangroves to receive huge boost from new carbon credit rules

A new method for calculating the role that mangrove restoration plays in slowing climate change, by capturing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, has been adopted.

The methodology is adopted under the UN climate change convention’s Kyoto Protocol, as part of the Clean Development Mechanism that supports emission reduction projects in developing countries.

Refining the Pacific Mangrove Initiative

The inaugural meeting of the Pacific Mangroves Initiative (PMI) Steering Committee was held on June 9 at the IUCN Oceania Regional office, bringing together government representatives from Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands, along with several partner organizations including UNDP Pacific Center, WWF, World Fish and SPREP. IUCN and SPREP are co-chairs of the initiative and highlights included:

• recognition of the importance of mangroves ecosystems to livelihoods, biodiversity and climate change adaptation and mitigation
• the need for an umbrella regional initiative such as the PMI to provide expertise, coordination and support to Pacific Island countries to rehabilitate, manage and conserve their mangroves
• noted and endorsed Papua New Guinea’s interest in joining the PMI for a PNG mangroves initiative.
• agreed to ensure PMI is endorsed by the SPREP Council and Pacific Forum Leaders to ensure effective conservation over the long term.

For more information contact milika.sobey@iucn.org.

Countries seal the deal on mangroves work

The five countries participating in IUCN Oceania’s regional mangroves project, Mangrove Ecosystems Climate Adaptation and Livelihoods (MESCAL), signed off on their individual financial contracts on June 9 as a wrap up to a week-long planning meeting for the project. This step in the project development will now enable Vanuatu, Fiji, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga and Samoa to begin work on the ground. Activities envisaged include policy regulations, mapping, review of baseline surveys and selection of project sites.

For more information contact martina.lee@iucn.org

Multiple ocean stresses threaten “globally significant” marine extinction

An international panel of experts warns in a report released today that marine species are at risk of entering a phase of extinction unprecedented in human history.

“Change comes from within”

Change comes from within and, in that sense, simple changes such as using less plastic, ensuring that we as individuals don’t litter, dispose of our rubbish in appropriate ways, use recyclable materials and goods, etc are important steps that can contribute to conserving our environment and, ultimately, our Pacific Ocean.

Statement by Taholo Kami, Regional Director of IUCN Oceania on the occasion of World Oceans Day, 8 June 2011.

Media and conservation: Bridging the gap

The relationship between conservation enthusiasts and the media has evolved over the years. To mark the launch of the two year campaign of World Oceans Day, a team of journalists and marine experts working in Fiji gathered for a panel discussion in Suva on June 8. All panellists expressed their concerns on the coverage of ocean related issues. The media was encouraged to take interest and “dig deeper” in reporting on environmental concerns. Marine experts present included, Dr. Stacy Jupiter of Wildlife Conservation Society and Professor Randy Thaman of the University of the South Pacific. Journalists included Rachna Nath of Fiji Television and Edwin Nand of Fiji Broadcasting Corporation.

The event was coordinated by Sea Web with support from IUCN Oceania.
For more information contact salote.sauturaga@iucn.org

IUCN welcomes two new Members from the Pacific

On 25 May 2011, the 76th Meeting of the IUCN Council admitted 24 new Members to IUCN and officially recognized 3 National Committees. The New Zealand Antarctic Institute (Antarctica New Zealand) and Te Ipukarea Society (TIS) in the Cook Islands were amongst the new admissions.

IUCN Oceania extends its warmest welcome to both organisations and looks forward to future collaborations.

Wantok Moana sets sail

Driven by their passion for marine science and conservation, a group of young enthusiasts at the University of the South Pacific have formed the first Marine Studies Student’s Association entitled Wantok Moana.

CEESP Sharing Power Conference Film

A short film produced by participants at the CEESP Conference in Whakatane, New Zealand (January 2011).  

Pacific Islands Climate Change Cooperative 2010 Annual Report

This is the first annual report of the PICCC.
 

Marine News

Marine News is the IUCN Global Marine and Polar Programme e-newsletter.

Species Magazine

This is the Species Survival Commission's bi-annual magazine.