CONSERVING and protecting the environment does not deceive or inhibit business opportunities, says Pacific Islands Development Forum secretary general Solo Mara.
Speaking at the Lau Seascape Strategy launch recently, he said environment conservation increased investment and this could lead to greater economic empowerment and more sustainable livelihoods in island communities.
Mr Mara said seeing the Lau group as a complete seascape was an important aspect of the Lau Seascape Strategy.
“The lesson is clear, you cannot save one island if you don’t save the others,” he said.
Mr Mara said the approach of blending traditional knowledge with contemporary science to achieve the best results for both the environment and the island was critical.
Ministry of Fisheries permanent secretary Craig Strong said the strategy clearly set up a sustainability system which could be an example to provinces around the country.
“Our vision is to have the best fisheries in the Pacific and our mission is to protect, sustain and manage our fisheries,” he said.
