Cook Islands GEF-7 Project ENUA
Welcome to the latest update on the Global Environment Facility (GEF) 7 Project ENUA in the Cook Islands! This exciting project is working towards enhancing biodiversity considerations and effective protected area management to safeguard the Cook Islands integrated ecosystems and species. It involves many key partners and stakeholders working together towards this common goal.
The Cook Islands GEF-7 Project ENUA is being implemented by the Cook Islands National Environment Service (NES), with assistance and support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and other partners. The project aims to support the Cook Islands in progressing some of our national sustainable development goals and commitments, as well as contributions towards international environmental agreements.
The project aims to reduce and mitigate negative environmental impacts of the key development sectors (agriculture, infrastructure, tourism), which were recognized in the 2018 State of Environment Report as the main national drivers of biodiversity and habitat degradation.
The project aims to do this through mainstreaming integrated, sustainable management of land and coastal waters across the National Environment Service (NES), Infrastructure Cook Islands (ICI), Cook Islands Tourism (CIT), and the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA).Â
The GEF-7 Project ENUA strategy also includes improving management effectiveness of target protected areas, as well as expansion of the protected area system through establishment of a 118-ha community conserved area safeguarding globally significant biodiversity within the Cloud forests of Rarotonga.
Other important components of the Cook Islands GEF-7 Project ENUA include capacity building and stakeholder engagement, ensuring that all relevant stakeholders are involved in project planning and implementation, and that local communities are empowered to participate in decision-making processes.
The Cook Islands GEF-7 Project ENUA is making great strides towards achieving its objectives, with many activities and initiatives already underway. These will be periodically updated here.
Overall, the Cook Islands GEF-7 Project ENUA is a vital initiative that is helping to promote sustainable development and biodiversity conservation in the Cook Islands. We look forward to continuing to update you on the progress of this important project in the coming months and years.
GEF7 Project ENUA: Introducing Our Conservation Efforts
We are pleased to announce the release of the introductory video for GEF7 Project ENUA, a significant step forward in our mission to safeguard the biodiversity of the Cook Islands. Produced by Kia Orana Collective (KOCo) in collaboration with the National Environment Service (NES), this video launch signals the beginning of our conservation journey.
Through visually engaging content, the video provides insight into the objectives and strategies of GEF7 Project ENUA. From showcasing the diverse ecosystems of the Cook Islands to outlining our conservation plans, viewers will gain a better understanding of our efforts to protect our natural heritage.
This launch serves as an invitation for all stakeholders and community members to get involved. By sharing the video through workshops, events, and the NES website, we aim to raise awareness and foster collective action in preserving our environment.
We extend our gratitude to the Global Environment Facility (GEF) for their support in making GEF7 Project ENUA possible. With their backing, we are better equipped to address the challenges facing our biodiversity.
Join us as we embark on this important endeavor. Together, let’s work towards a sustainable future for the Cook Islands.
Important Information:Â
Timeframe: March 2023 – March 2029
Donor: Global Environment Fund (GEF)
Budget: US$3.5m
Executing Partner: United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
