First National State of the Environment Report Launched
The first Vanuatu National State of the Environment (SOE) Report has been officially launched on Tuesday this week by the Minister of Climate Change, John Salong, alongside Director General of the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), Mr Sefanaia Nawadra.
A National State of the Environment Report is catered for under the Environmental Protection and Conservation Act.
Such report includes an assessment of the state of all natural resources; a review of the current use of natural resources; an assessment of the quality of Vanuatu’s environment; an assessment of social and economic development trends and their likely impact upon the environment; a summary of government and private sector policies, programs and initiatives to address and monitor environmental management and conservation issues; a description of national climate change activities, impacts and issues; and such other matters that are considered appropriate.
The report amplifies the Environment Pillar of the National Sustainable Development Plan (NSDP) and reflects on the importance of collaboration and data-sharing between government departments to help the Vanuatu Government, through the Department of Environmental Protection (DEPC), to continuously update this document in the future.
This will ensure appropriate and adequate policy decisions are made for a safe environment and sustainable economy for current and future generations.
When delivering his statement to mark the occasion, Minister Salong said the moment marks a significant milestone for Vanuatu, where efforts of the people and government are celebrated for protecting the environment that is not only “our home but also our heritage”.
“This report is not just a collection of data; it is a testament to the commitment and contributions of Vanuatu’s Government and her people—from traditional leaders to local communities, Civil Society Organisations; institutions and Government sectors and stakeholders.
“It highlights our collective achievements while reminding us of the immense challenges we face, especially as we confront the growing threat of the triple planetary crisis that are now challenging us immensely.
“Our environment stands as a core pillar in Vanuatu's People’s Plan for a sustainable future.
“The State of the Environment (SoE) Report, required under the Environmental Protection and Conservation Act CAP 283, is a vital resource for steering the country toward sustainable development.
“Developed through consultations with local experts and various sectors, including health, education, agriculture, and fisheries, the report highlights the collective input from across the nation. It emphasizes that the environment connects all sectors, and through this shared connection, Vanuatu can address future challenges,” the Minister of Climate Change said.
He commended the Department of Environment for coordinating the development of this comprehensive report and expressed appreciation to the Government ministries, sectors, partners and local communities that supported its development.
He also acknowledged the financial and technical support provided by Vanuatu’s regional partner, the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) which was crucial in producing this report.
“The State of the Environment Report addresses issues deeply important to all ni-Vanuatu, focusing on how choices impact ancestral languages, traditional knowledge, plants, and animals.
“While it is inevitable that change will come as we pursue progress for the benefit of our people, such changes must not harm the values and natural resources that define Vanuatu's national identity.
“The report will guide better decision making by the Government on how to address the environmental challenges we are facing today and will support the Government in its reporting to Multilateral Environment Agreements.
“I will urge development partners and donor agencies to work and support the Government because I believe your contribution will greatly help in addressing critical issues identified in the report.
“This report is a foundation—a call to action—for all of us to safeguard the legacy of our land and oceans for future generations,” Minister John Salong stated at the launching of the Report at Warwick Le Lagon Resort in Port Vila in front of the participants of the seventh Pacific Meteorological Council Meeting.