“Science is one of our strongest tools in the fight against climate change. It empowers Fiji and the Pacific to speak with evidence, advocate with confidence and deliver solutions that protect our people, our ocean and our future.”
This was the message from the Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Hon. Lynda Tabuya, during her visit to the Pacific-Community-SPC office in Narere today, at the invitation of SPC.
The visit provided an opportunity for the Minister to gain a deeper understanding of SPC’s scientific and technical work supporting Fiji and the wider Pacific in addressing climate change and advancing regional priorities ahead of Pre-COP31 and COP31. Presentations showcased SPC’s work across climate science, oceans, fisheries, agriculture, geoscience and climate finance, demonstrating how science-based evidence is helping Pacific countries strengthen resilience and inform decision-making.
Hon. Tabuya was also taken on a tour of SPC’s Centre for Pacific Crops and Trees (CePaCT), where she viewed its collection of Pacific plant species and seed conservation work. She also witnessed an interactive scientific model demonstrating the projected impacts of sea-level rise on Tuvalu, highlighting the critical role of science in understanding climate risks and informing adaptation planning.
SPC Deputy Director-General Dr Andrew Jones reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to the region, stating:
“The Pacific is not just on the frontline of climate change, it is helping lead the response. SPC’s Pacific-led science is generating the evidence the world needs to protect our ocean and invest in a more resilient future, and we are privileged to serve Pacific countries through this work.”
The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change values SPC’s work as a trusted and Pacific-owned science and technical institution and looks forward to continuing to work together to strengthen Pacific voices, promote science-based climate action and deliver meaningful outcomes for the region at Pre-COP31 and COP31.