βLet this be the era of implementation and action.β
That was the message from the Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Hon. Lynda Tabuya, as she called on Asia-Pacific leaders to turn environmental commitments into practical results.
Speaking at the Ministerial Roundtable on Strengthening Regional Cooperation for Environment and Development in Bangkok, Hon. Tabuya updated Ministers on Fijiβs progress since hosting the first-ever Forum of Ministers and Environment Authorities of Asia Pacific (AP6) in the Pacific, reaffirming Fijiβs commitment to delivering on regional priorities.
The Minister highlighted stronger cooperation to tackle plastic pollution, improve access to climate finance, protect biodiversity, recognise Indigenous knowledge, and advance the interests of Small Island Developing States.
Hon. Tabuya said plastic pollution remains one of the regionβs greatest environmental threats and pointed to Fijiβs growing network of Trashbooms, installed in partnership with municipal councils and Trashboom Pacific, to intercept rubbish in rivers before it reaches the ocean.
βIt is our collective responsibility to safeguard our rich biodiversity and build resilience to climate change through decisive action,β Hon. Tabuya said.
She also highlighted Fijiβs leadership in securing the UNEA-7 resolution on accelerating global action to strengthen the climate resilience of coral reefs, reaffirming Fijiβs commitment to protecting the Pacific Ocean through regional cooperation and practical solutions.