Fiji Ecology
As amazing as Fiji's natural beauty is, it's environmental
record could be improved.
As the population increased approximately 2500 years ago and moved inland, widespread burning and clearing of the land for agricultural use caused major erosion.
Since the mid 20 th century more forests have been cleared. This causes a ripple effect in which:
1. Cleared rainforest patches are exposed to weeds
and pests,
2. Valuable topsoil washes into the sea which in
turn kills coral which results in decreased fish species and the
effect continues.
There are resorts and villages that utilise
sustainable practices as they have realised that you must
think for the future and not the short term. Visitors can
inturn help by setting a positive example. As mentioned in Travelling
Tips, always take your rubbish with you when in remote
places. Fijian's in villages still practice the burning method for
disposing rubbish, unfortunately the modern day rubbish is not biodegradable
and is often made up of plastic.
Fiji's fresh water supply is not well managed. For
tourists, the water in urban areas and hotels and resorts are generally
okay but as mentioned in the Health category, to
be extra cautious purchase bottled spring water. You can also boil
your water if it is possible. Supply and quality in rural areas
is poor and in some places is unfit for human consumption.
Certain fish species such as Tuna
and Marlin are heavily and unsustainably fished
so avoid these species. Destructive fishing techniques are still
practiced in the Pacific today such as explosives, poisons and large
drag nets without policing. Taking Coral for the
aquarium and tourism industry still occurs so do the right thing
and please don't support these practices. Every person collectively
can make a difference.
Check out the Nature Attractions section for eco-tourism projects in Fiji.
Conservation Groups in Fiji are
• World Wildlife Fund Ph: 331 55 33
• Greenpeace Ph: 331 28 61
Always remember "Conserve Fiji today to preserve Fiji for tomorrow."
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