Implementing a ‘Ridge to Reef’ approach to protect biodiversity and ecosystem functions in Tuvalu

Implementing a ‘Ridge to Reef’ approach to protect biodiversity and ecosystem functions in Tuvalu

The proposed R2R project focuses on the conservation of the natural environment and the maintenance, and where needed the rehabilitation, of ecosystems for the benefit of the people of Tuvalu. It is consistent with the strategies in a number of GEF focal areas: Biodiversity; Sustainable Land Management; International Waters.

The project will link to the Pacific R2R program "Pacific Islands Ridge-to-Reef National Priorities - Integrated Water, Land, Forest & Coastal Management to Preserve Ecosystem Services, Store Carbon, Improve Climate Resilience and Sustain Livelihoods". The project will support the strengthening and development of a Tuvaluan system of marine conservation areas, similar to the Locally Managed Marine Areas (LMMAs) to effectively conserve about 15% of its coastline by the end of the project in 2018. It will seek to harmonize LMMA principles within Tuvalu's Policy and Legislation, develop Action Plans and implement selected priorities of these Plans in the nine islands. The Biodiversity-related activities will link with Integrated Land and Water Management in assessing resource status, revegetating damaged island and coastal 'forests', improving or developing LMMAs governed by the Kaupule (Island Councils) to assist the recovery of degraded coral reefs and for protecting breeding fish populations, optimizing water use and addressing coastal pollution including algal blooms. The project will implement a 'ridge-to-reef' approach that integrates terrestrial and marine biodiversity with water and land management, jointly implemented by government and local communities.

Did you find what you were looking for?