REPLANTING of mangroves in Vanua Levu has started in some districts of Macuata.
Divisional fisheries officer north Gerald Billings said the exercise would cover identified areas in the Northern Division. The first phase of the replanting program has started in Lakeba Village in Namuka.
He said the program would involve villagers and fisheries officials.
"We are planting mangroves all around the north and especially in areas that we have identified," Mr Billings said. "We know mangroves play a vital role in our waters and that is why we are working with villagers in replanting mangroves."
Some villagers have already started planting mangroves as they partner with non-governmental organisations.
Last year, villagers of Macuata-i-wai island worked with NGO group 350.org to plant mangroves along the village shore. The group had planted mangroves to help address issues of climate change.
The normal parts per million (ppm) for carbon dioxide in the air, according to 350.org, is 350ppm but at this stage, the world has a record of 395ppm.
It says mangroves are also vital habitats that not only protect the coasts against tsunamis, hurricanes and sea level change, but also benefits the reefs by exporting life-building carbon.