Fiji Environmental Law Association Factsheets

Fiji Environmental Law Association Factsheets

Towards an Effective Legal Framework for Marine Protected Areas in Fiji - Policy and Law Discussion Paper

Towards an Effective Legal Framework for Marine Protected Areas in Fiji – Policy and Law Discussion Paper


Executive Summary

Background, purpose and methodology 

In 2005, the government of Fiji committed to protecting at least 30% of Fiji’s marine areas  using ‘comprehensive, ecologically representative networks of MPAs [marine protected  areas], which are effectively managed and financed’.

In order to establish a comprehensive  and ecologically representative network of marine protected areas (MPAs), Fiji must first  have in place a suitable legal framework, that is, appropriate policies and legislation.  

The purpose of this paper is to support the development of a comprehensive legal  framework for the establishment and management of an effective network of MPAs in Fiji which is based on science and suited to the Fiji context. 

MPAs are not just aimed at limiting fishing activity but also promote a whole range of  potential uses that address critical issues such as: food security, resilience to natural  disasters and adaptation to climate change. 

To create a network of MPAs suited to the Fiji context is a significant challenge that will not  be achieved through law reform alone, as it requires a multi-disciplinary approach and  involves consultation and agreement with communities, the Ministry of Fisheries, NGOs,  fisheries experts, economists and lawyers, amongst others.

It is also crucial to understand,  respect, and work within, Fiji’s unique law and governance context that includes the  recognition of traditional rights, communities and artisanal fishers.

Ultimately, as decisions to  create MPAs will affect existing user rights, they can only be developed through a  consultative process that takes into account the views and concerns of those who will be  affected.  

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An Analysis Of International Law, National Legislation, Judgements, And Institutions As They Interrelate With Territories And Areas Conserved By Indigenous Peoples And Local Communities – Report No. 19 – Fiji

Introduction

Across the world, areas with high or important biodiversity are often located within Indigenous peoples’ and local communities’ conserved territories and areas (ICCAs).

Traditional and contemporary systems of stewardship embedded within cultural practices enable the conservation, restoration and connectivity of ecosystems, habitats, and specific species in accordance with indigenous and local worldviews.

An Analysis Of International Law, National Legislation, Judgements, And Institutions As They Interrelate With Territories And Areas Conserved By Indigenous Peoples And Local Communities – Report No. 19 – Fiji Read More »

Saving Sea Turtles In Fiji - A Guide For Law Enforcement - Part 1 - The Law

Saving Sea Turtles In Fiji – A Guide For Law Enforcement – Part 2 – Identification and References

The handbook provides details of relevant laws protecting turtles, offences, penalties, and guidance on investigative procedures and information on turtle species that will assist authorised enforcement officers and enforcement agencies to strengthen turtle protection in Fiji.

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Saving Sea Turtles In Fiji - A Guide For Law Enforcement - Part 1 - The Law

Saving Sea Turtles In Fiji – A Guide For Law Enforcement – Part 1 – The Law

Introduction

Turtles play an important role in Pacific culture as well as that of the indigenous Fijians or iTaukei.

In certain parts of Fiji, turtles are considered totem animals or spirits. Turtles, traditional mats and whale’s teeth have cultural signi?icance and are used in some parts of Fiji in traditional ceremonies such as Chiefly weddings and Chiefly installations.

Legends of these sea creatures remain in the oral traditions to the present day.

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ENVIRONMENTAL LAW FACT SHEET NO. 6

Breaches Of The Law – Environmental Law Association Environmental Law Fact Sheet No. 6

Introduction

This fact sheet was produced by the Environmental Law Association to help members of the public respond effectively to breaches of environmental law.

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Pollution And Waste Management - Environmental Law Association  Environmental Law Fact Sheet No. 2 

Pollution And Waste Management – Environmental Law Association  Environmental Law Fact Sheet No. 2 

Introduction

This fact sheet was produced by the Environmental Law Association to provide a plain language introduction to national pollution control laws, including the Environment Management Act, Litter Decree, Water Supply Act and the Public Health Act.

Pollution And Waste Management – Environmental Law Association  Environmental Law Fact Sheet No. 2  Read More »

Forest Management And The Law - Environmental Law Association Environmental Law Fact Sheet No. 3

Forest Management And The Law – Environmental Law Association Environmental Law Fact Sheet No. 3

Introduction

This fact sheet was produced by the Environmental Law Association to provide a plain language introduction to legal issues related to logging, including: landowner consent, timber licensing, logging plans, environmental impact assessment and operational standards set out in the national logging code of practice.

This fact sheet also describes legal mechanisms for protecting forests, including nature reserves, protected catchment areas and conservation leases.

Forest Management And The Law – Environmental Law Association Environmental Law Fact Sheet No. 3 Read More »

Fisheries Management And The Law   - Environmental Law Association  Environmental Law Fact Sheet No. 4

Fisheries Management And The Law   – Environmental Law Association  Environmental Law Fact Sheet No. 4

Introduction

This fact sheet was produced by the Environmental Law Association to provide a plain language introduction to legal issues related to fishing, including traditional fishing rights, licensing under the Fisheries Act, gazettal of marine reserves, size limits, gear restrictions, protected species and fisheries compliance and enforcement issues.

Fisheries Management And The Law   – Environmental Law Association  Environmental Law Fact Sheet No. 4 Read More »

Environmental Impact Assessment Process - Environmental Law Association Environmental Law Fact Sheet No. 1

Environmental Impact Assessment Process – Environmental Law Association Environmental Law Fact Sheet No. 1

Introduction

This fact sheet was produced by the Environmental Law Association to provide a plain language introduction to environmental impact assessment (EIA) procedures under the Environment Management Act 2005.

Environmental Impact Assessment  

Environmental impact assessment (EIA) is a process used to identify the environmental, social and economic impacts of proposed developments. EIA can be used to identify options for reducing the impacts of proposed developments, and provides information for the public and government decision-makers.



Disclaimer

This fact sheet provides general information about the law, and is no substitute for legal advice relating to your particular situation. ELA accepts no responsibility for any loss resulting from reliance on the information provided in this fact sheets.

Law current as at 1 March 2010. Environmental Law Association © 2010.


Environmental Impact Assessment Process - Environmental Law Association Environmental Law Fact Sheet No. 1
Environmental Impact Assessment Process – Environmental Law Association Environmental Law Fact Sheet No. 1

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Participating In Decision-Making - Environmental Law Association Environmental Law Fact Sheet No. 5

Participating In Decision-Making – Environmental Law Association Environmental Law Fact Sheet No. 5

Introduction

This fact sheet was produced by the Environmental Law Association to help members of the public participate effectively in environmental decision-making processes.

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