THE Nanukuloa community, in the Ra province, has successfully restored coastal ecosystems devastated by Cyclone Winston, reviving local livelihoods and biodiversity.
Mangrove and forest restoration reversed cyclone damage by regenerating dead trees and rocks into lush greenery, improving fish and crab populations vital to fishing livelihoods.
“Restoration efforts led by Conservation International alongside local groups helped revive the forest and mangroves, with the return of fish, mud crabs, and shellfish has directly boosted food supply and income for coastal communities,” said Sulueti Lotu, leader of Nanukuloa Business Project.
“The forest recovery also restored lost bee populations, enabling the revival of beekeeping as a livelihood, and this ecological improvement addressed a critical loss experienced since the February 2016 cyclone damage.”
The Community-led waste separation and ocean protection programs have reduced marine pollution, safeguarding fish habitats and supporting sustainable fishing.
Lotu said the programme introduced rubbish sorting into several categories, including paper, plastic, and food waste.
“This initiative prevents trash dumping into the sea, which previously harmed fish and shellfish populations,’’ she said.
“The community also celebrates Ocean Day with beach clean-ups involving provincial councils and locals, and these efforts reflect a cultural shift towards environmental responsibility and sustainable resource use.”
Economic and Livelihood Revitalisation
Local small businesses and traditional trades have rebounded through innovative recycling and product development linked to environmental recovery.
Women’s craft businesses emerged from recycling waste materials to produce paper jewellery, cotton fans, and repurposed containers, generating income and reducing waste.
She said products include paper jewellery made from wastepaper and plastic, as well as fans from reused cotton cartons.
“These crafts help turn trash into marketable goods, supporting both environmental and economic goals, and the initiative builds on traditional weaving skills adapted to new recycling methods,’’ Lotu said.
“Some women secured orders from major shops in Suva, expanding market reach beyond local sales.”
Agricultural innovation through hydroponics and recycled planting bags supports food security and diversifies income sources.
Lotu added the program uses recycled sugar bags as planting containers for various crops, with Hydroponic farming is being introduced to increase productivity and sustainability.
“Despite progress, women face challenges due to a lack of essential crafting tools like glue guns and reading tools,’’ she said.
“These constraints have caused some loss of interest among participants, but efforts continue to sustain the program.”
