The theme recognises the critical function of wetlands in acting as buffers against the impact of climate change and how wetlands should be appreciated in stabilising green house gas (GHG) emissions.

Studies have shown that the frequency of disasters worldwide has more than doubled in just 35 years.

Commissioner Northern Jovesa Vocea made this statement while opening the Qoliqoli Cokovata management plan workshop at Labasa Civic Centre yesterday.

This is in line with the World Wetlands Day campaign

He further elaborated that 90 per cent of these disasters were water-related, 35 per cent of wetlands were already lost since 1970.

More extreme weather was predicted and carbon dioxide emissions from drained and burned peat lands equate to 10 per cent of all annual fossil fuel emissions.

“The Theme for World Wetlands Day 2019 which will be held on February 2 is ‘wetlands and climate change’,” Mr Vocea said.

“The theme recognises the critical function of wetlands acting as buffers against the impact of climate change and how wetlands should be appreciated in stabilising green house gas (GHG) emissions.

“In safeguarding wetlands it helps us cope with climate change.

“Wetlands play a significant role in blunting the impacts of climate change.

“Natural hazards such as floods and hurricanes have become more prevalent in Fiji as a result of climate and weather changes causing massive calamities.

“These drain communities economically, physically and environmentally.”

Vanua Levu has quite distinctive wetlands ranging from the Dreketi Catchment and Labasa Delta mangroves which drain combined alluvial fans of three rivers, the Labasa, Qawa and Wailevu.

These three rivers then drain the fertile Labasa plains and adjacent foothills.

“The largest lake in Fiji – Lake Tagimoucia is in Taveuni and the only significant brackish and saline lakes are Galogalo Lake, Gasauva Salt Lagoon and Lake Drano in Vanua Levu,” Mr Vocea said.

“Not forgetting the mysterious and fascinating floating island of Nubu.

“Most of these wetlands do not have any form of protection or management over them.

“We also have the traditional kuta ponds scattered across Vanua Levu which are part of the traditional culture and heritage of our local communities.

“Most of these wetlands do not have any form of legal protection or management and are at risk from developments such as subdivisions, reclamations or farming.”

The continued destruction of wetlands only works to compromise their health and integrity and consequently, will result in their not being able to execute their natural functions in the ecosystems.

But, most importantly they serve as natural buffers against the impacts of climate change.

A well-managed wetland can become natural solutions to environmental and economic problems and safeguard against the impacts of climate change.

Therefore, it is critical that everyone from all walks of life is aware of the value and significance that these natural ecosystems play.”

Edited by Susana Tuilau

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