MAMANUCA ENVIRONMENT SOCIETY: PROMOTES OFFSET OF CARBON FOOTPRINTS
In the past, mangroves have been described as muddy, mosquito bred swamps and its removal would bring about relief to many.
Now, the perception has changed, appreciation and action about its importance for the ecosystem is taken more seriously.
Located West of Nadi and South of the Yasawa group lies the spectacular white sand beaches, colourful coral lagoons and popular tourist destination of the Mamanuca group. Its coastal and mangrove maintenance would not have been possible without the efforts of locals, government and non-government organisations.
Throughout the years, the Mamanuca Environment Society (MES) has been committed to promote awareness in the need to protect marine and terrestrial resources of the Mamanuca group.
MANGROVE WORKS RESTORATION
Project manager, Marica Vakacola works closely with locals and resorts in their engagement in fun filled activities like mangrove planting.
One of their many initiatives is the recent joint efforts with ‘Your Paradise’ - a resort package deal that includes hands-on experience on promoting the offset of carbon footprints.
“One of the major components of the Society is to integrate conservation work to locals and to tourists alike who are coming into Fiji,” Ms Vakacola said.
Your Paradise package is bringing in artists and guests to experience the island lifestyle in Fiji.
“It is to also extend the existing mangrove site that the organisation MES has been engaged with in the past years,” Ms Vakacola said.
“Not only are we trying to promote the local community in this environment programme, we are also engaging guests who are there to enjoy their vacation to get hands-on activity.
“Whether they are doing coral planting, tree planting, mangrove restoration, the idea is to leave behind something that they are proud of when they return as it adds a lot of value for them.”
Guests and locals were seen getting their hands dirty near the two sites of Solevu and Yaro village.
A Yaubula committee has also been set up within each village. “The Yaubula committee is our major contact in executing the implementation of other projects whether it be a land based restoration work or coastal restoration work, “Ms Vakacola said.
These activities will resume and continue next year.
MANGROVES FOR COASTAL DEFENCE
Studies have found that mangroves are able to constrict wind and swell waves.
The Mamanuca group is no strang