The Government of Solomon Islands, through the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management & Meteorology has called for the proactive Advancement of Sustainable Solutions to Strengthen the Asia Pacific Region Resilience.
Speaking at the Conference of Sixth Forum of Ministers and Environment Authorities of Asia Pacific from 26 – 29 August 2025 in Nadi, Fiji, Minister Polycarp Paea urged Asia Pacific Leaders to seek and advance sustainable solutions to strengthen a collective effort to build resilience.
Minister Paea urges the meeting, that the region cannot meaningfully progress sustainable solutions without addressing the urgent issue of climate change, biodiversity loss and plastic pollution of which Pacific Islands Countries are the most vulnerable and are on the frontlines. He said that “our voices must be heard, particularly in calling on the world’s most responsible countries to reduce emissions. We cannot continue to pursue solutions without addressing the root causes.”
He said “as ocean peoples, our survival depends on our marine and coastal resources. Empowering our communities through inclusive governance systems is vital to safeguarding coral reefs and fish stocks that underpin our food security.” Equally, he highlighted that biodiversity conservation in the islands is central to resilience.
The Solomon Islands hosts unique species and ecosystems, including tropical rainforests and mangroves, on which lives depend on. At the national level, the country remains committed to community-based conservation that integrates traditional knowledge, science and best-practices, working closely with NGOs, partners, and government institutions to protect these invaluable natural assets.
The Minister, urges the leaders to the recognise the immediate and urgent need to:
1. Strengthen policies and institutions for climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction;
2. Improve climate and disaster information, including early warning systems;
3. Empower communities through capacity building and social networks;
4. Invest in climate-resilient sectors such as forestry and energy;
5. Promote gender equality and social inclusion and community-based approaches; and
6. Ensure equitable access to climate finance.
The Forum provides a platform for governments, intergovernmental organizations, and other stakeholders to discuss and prioritize environmental issues in the Asia Pacific region. It aims to contribute to the outcome of the seventh session of the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-7) taking place from 08 to 12 December 2025 in Nairobi, with the theme “Advancing sustainable solutions for a resilient planet”.
The Minister is accompanied by the Director of Environment and Conservation Division, Mr. Josef Hurutarau.
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[MECDM]
