The National Environment Service (NES) is excited to announce the official launch of the project to update the Cook Islands’ National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP). With the current NBSAP now over 20 years old, this update marks a critical milestone in our commitment to biodiversity conservation.
The NBSAP, originally developed in 2002, under the leadership of Gerald McCormack, was a groundbreaking initiative that laid the foundation for preserving the Cook Islands’ unique ecosystems. However, as environmental challenges have evolved over the past two decades, it has become essential to revise and update the plan to reflect the current needs and aspirations of our communities.
Recent Workshops and Community Engagement.
As part of the preparatory activities for this update, NES held two successful workshops in early August 2024. These workshops brought together key stakeholders, including conservation practitioners, policymakers, and representatives from both government agencies and Non-Government Organisations (NGO’s). The discussions cantered on aligning the updated NBSAP with national policies and the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), identifying priority targets, and establishing a dedicated working group to guide and oversee the revision process.
Comprehensive Consultations Across the Cook Islands:
Building on the insights gained from these workshops, NES is moving forward with a series of comprehensive consultations across the Cook Islands. This will include one-on-one consultations with NGOs and government agencies, village community consultations on Rarotonga, and visits to the Pa Enua. These engagements are designed to ensure that every community’s voice is heard and that local insights play a pivotal role in shaping the new NBSAP.
Invitation to Participate
The NES invites all Cook Islanders to actively participate in these consultations, ensuring their voices are integral to the future of biodiversity conservation in our nation. Together, we can build a sustainable and resilient future for the Cook Islands.
For more information, please contact the NES.
