CHURCHES have an important role to play in nature conservation, says the general secretary of Pacific Conference of Churches Fe'iloakitau Kaho Tevi.
Mr Tevi pointed this out as the conference vowed to work in partnership with the Pacific Islands roundtable for nature conservation.
The roundtable method of discussing issues is the only membership-based network of donors, non-government organisations and regional agencies working in nature conservation in the Pacific.
"Our main focus is to look at the stewardship of God's creation," Mr Tevi said.
"Being good stewards and guardians of God's creation is our duty.
"We want to work together with all the nature conservation organisations and to bring together all the member churches to make them realise their role in this important issue."
The conference of churches has 26 member countries and 11 national councils of churches.
Mr Tevi said creating a close network between churches and conservation organisations would result in reaching far and comprehensive outcomes in managing the natural resources of the Pacific region.
He said it was obvious the important role Pacific churches played in decision making issues in nation-building and the church intended to have a voice in nature conservation as well.
"We want them to know that this is our stand and to highlight what we intend to do with the expertise and knowledge they have," said Mr Tevi.
The church has already identified the areas it needs to look into.
"We are looking at the adaptation measures that need to be taken, renewable energy area and also focusing on fisheries issues with relevant stakeholders."
The concerned church leader said the focus of everyone in the region should be to ensure there are natural resources left for many generations to come.
