The Fiji Cabinet has decided the nation will join a ‘High Ambition Coalition (HAC)’, a group of nations working together to end plastic pollution.
This was one of the decisions taken at this week’s cabinet meeting relating to environmental obligations and measures.
National strategy on plastic pollution
Cabinet endorsed an inter- agency approach for Fiji’s involvement in negotiations to develop an International Legally binding Instrument on Plastic Pollution, including in the marine environment.
This aligns with Fiji’s aims to help international efforts against plastic pollution while also creating a comprehensive national strategy.
A fifth session (INC-5) to negotiate a global agreement is scheduled for 25 November to 1 December 2024 in Busan, Republic of Korea.
Fiji National Fisheries Policy 2024-2028
Cabinet approved the Fiji National fisheries Policy for 2024- 2028, which will establish a strategic framework to manage the country’s fisheries and aquaculture sectors. The policy aims to promote sustainability, economic growth and food security. The key focus areas include:
- Offshores Fisheries: develop management plans, update legislation, support industry growth, and conduct strategic research.
- Aquaculture: Promote sustainable practices, modernise legislation, and adopt environmentally friendly approaches.
- Coastal and Inland Fisheries: Focus on community- based management, update legislation and support small- scale fishes; and
- Cross- Sectoral Issues: Address marine spatial management, gender and youth involvement, environmental policies, and the intersection with tourism.
Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF)
Cabinet has approved the implementation of Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), with funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF). The GEF helps developing countries protect nature and supports efforts related to biodiversity, climate change, and other environmental issue.
Fiji secured this project to review its priority biodiversity focus areas and align them with new global targets.
The project will involve collaboration across government, civil society, NGOs, regional organisations, and local communities, and is set to finish by 28 February 2025.