Pacific Island nations urge global support for biodiversity and climate health

Pacific Island nations are advocating for increased support and recognition of regional conservation and climate resilience efforts on the global stage. At the Convention on Biological Diversity meetings in Nairobi, Kenya, Fiji’s delegation, led by Dr. Sivendra Michael, called for greater financial and technical assistance to help Small Island Developing States meet biodiversity commitments. Dr. Michael emphasized the importance of community-led solutions for protecting reefs, fisheries, and mangroves.

In a separate regional discussion at the Pacific Climate Change Roundtable, Samoa highlighted the intersection of climate change and public health. Lealaisalanoa Frances Brown Reupena, CEO of Samoa’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, noted that shifting rainfall patterns and warmer temperatures are increasing the spread of vector-borne diseases, such as dengue fever. She urged regional leaders to integrate health protection into broader climate resilience strategies, citing the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent as a framework for collaborative action.