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A u g u s t   2 0 1 4

This Framework is a “Living Document”. It is intended to support and complement the Peoples Charter for Change, Peace and Progress and the 2010-2014 Roadmap for Democracy and Sustainable Socio-Economic Development and its successor national development documents. As such this Green Growth Framework has the same vision as the Roadmap

© Copyright 2014.

Ministry of Strategic Planning, National Development & Statistics, Republic of Fiji.

Design& Layout: Kalo Williams.    

VISION

A  better Fiji for all

Foreword

The Prime Minister
Rear Admiral (Retired)
Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama

I am pleased to commend to all the people of Fiji, our development partners and the international community this ‘Green Growth Framework for Fiji: Restoring the Balance in Development that is Sustainable for Our Future’.

In my opening Address to the National Summit on Green Growth convened from 12-13th june 2014 to consider this Framework, I highlighted that “the old ways of growing our economy, of developing our nation, are no longer adequate or acceptable. Too much of what has been done or achieved has been unsustainable. In far too many instances, our resources have been exploited without the proper care that is needed to nurture them so that they continue to provide the prosperity on which we all depend”.

The word ‘sustainable’ has been in Fiji’s development agenda for a large part of the four decades since independence, similar to the rest of the world. It is however, important to acknowledge that no country has yet achieved sustainable development. The recent emergence of the green growth tool to support countries in implementing their development agenda was endorsed by all countries, including Fiji, at the Third World Summit on Sustainable Development convened in Rio in june 2012. I attended that World Summit and note with interest that this has been followed through here in the region amongst Pacific Small Island Developing States by supportive decisions of both the Melanesian Spearhead Group and the Pacific Islands Development Forum.

Notwithstanding the very real opportunity of the Framework to accelerate implementation in Fiji’s development agenda, over the past seven years my government has been able to raise Fiji’s economic performance from a low growth to now 3.8% projected for 2014, a development that has been received positively by the international community. I am convinced we can do better.

It is within this timely context that the Green Growth Framework has been formulated. It is a first for Fiji. I acknowledge that in developing this Framework we have not been able to learn from the lessons of other comparable developing countries in particular our fellow small island developing states, as no other country similar to Fiji has yet done it. It is truly made in Fiji, by Fiji and for Fiji. I therefore urge everyone to accept this Framework as a ‘living document’ which will undergo ongoing review and update as we move forward. I am keen to see the Framework develop further to fully take on board the concept of green growth in a blue world in order to underscore the reality, the importance and the opportunity of Fiji’s very large marine environment compared with the relatively small total land area of our islands.

This Green Growth Framework is an innovative tool to accelerate integrated and inclusive sustainable development that inspires action at all levels in the country to build environmental resilience, build social improvement and reduce poverty, build economic growth, and build resilience to the anticipated adverse affects of climate change.

The vision of the Framework is the same as the Roadmap which it supports and complements: ‘A better Fiji for All’. The implementation of the Framework will be supported by eight Guiding Principles together with the packaging of our development agenda into ten Thematic Areas as opposed to the historic sector approach. At the same time the national enabling environment will need to be further developed and strengthened. Together these bring out the reality of the cross-cutting nature of many development issues and that we must learn to work together in more integrated and inclusive ways in order to do our business better, empower people throughout our communities, and leave no-one behind.

At this stage I would like to acknowledge the support received from all those who have contributed to the development of the Framework. In particular all representatives of the many stakeholder groups that make up our society and who contributed at the Thematic Working Group meetings, the Provincial Development Forums, and the National Summit. Each of these consultative steps I believe has provided valuable feedback, facilitated ownership and endorsement of this Framework.

Looking ahead, I can assure everyone that an immediate first step will be to ensure this initiative is taken to each and every individual in the country through the development of an ongoing communications and advocacy strategy. This strategy will contribute to empowering people by ensuring they are consulted in the development decision-making machinery that in turn ensures development today and tomorrow will be sustainable into the future. Key in this process are the children and young people for whom actions now must be accounted for in the future. I also give my assurance that I will provide the leadership by establishing a High Level Multi-Stakeholder Panel on Sustainable Development to act in an advisory capacity.

For sure in the past, mistakes and oversights have happened and “hotspots” have emerged, and there is no doubt that in the future others will inevitably be made. but through adopting a risk management approach supported by better data and information to provide us with the knowledge to underpin the application of the green growth tool in support of achieving development that is sustainable, we should be able to manage and minimise the risks. However at the end of the day there will be a residual risk, especially those due to circumstances beyond Fiji’s control which we must identify, accept and adapt to.

In closing, let us all commit to working better together to restore the balance in Fiji’s development agenda that is sustainable.

Rear Admiral (Retired) Josaia voreqe Bainimarama Prime Minister

August 2014 

Executive Summary

The Green Growth Framework for Fiji: Restoring the balance in Development that is Sustainable for our Future is a ‘living document’ which was developed in early 2014. This Framework is intended to support and complement the Peoples Charter for Change, Peace and Progress and the 2010-2014 Roadmap for Democracy and Sustainable Socio-Economic Development and its successor national development documents. The Roadmap and this Green Growth Framework therefore share the same vision: A Better Fiji for All.

Fiji’s current development path is largely driven by the changing consumption and production patterns of its people which have been exacerbated by world events such as the global economic crises, increases in food and fuel prices and the impacts of climate change. The balance between the three pillars of sustainable development; namely economic, social and environmental, will be lost if this trend continues. It is now not an option but an imperative to put in place a process which, over time, will ensure the balance is restored and that future development is both sustainable and can be sustained...and with Fiji remaining a largely pristine island country.

This process must make certain this balance is restored and that, in addition, the people of Fiji are placed at the centre of development. However, it must be understood that whilst the people are often exposed to risks beyond their control, at the same time the people, through their own actions can also be the source of many risks.

To support this important process, this Green Growth Framework is intended to provide an opportunity in which everyone, government, non government, the private sector, faith-based organisations, academia, the media, urban and rural communities and individuals alike can identify the role they must each play in the pursuit of restoring the balance in development which must be sustainable.

This Green Growth Framework for Fiji is a tool to accelerate integrated and inclusive sustainable development which will inspire action at all levels, to strengthen environmental resilience, drive social improvement and reduce poverty, enhance economic growth and also build capacity to withstand and manage the anticipated adverse effects of climate change.

To support the vision of the Green Growth Framework: A better Fiji for All and taking into consideration the global and regional developments in green growth, the guiding principles of this Framework are as follows:

• Reducing carbon ‘footprints’ at all levels;
• Improving resource utilization and productivity (simply put, doing more with less);
• Developing a new integrated approach, with all stakeholders collaborating and collectively working together for the common good. The cross-cutting nature of issues relating to sustainable development requires harmony and synergy in the formulation of strategies;
• Strengthening socio-cultural education of responsible environmental stewardship and civic responsibility;
• Increasing the adoption of comprehensive risk management practices;
• Supporting the adoption of sound environment auditing of past and planned developments, in order to provide support to initiatives which not only provide economic benefits but also improve the environmental situation;
• Enhancing structural reforms in support of fair competition and efficiency; and
• Incentivising investment in the rational and efficient use of natural resources.

Successful implementation of the Green Growth Framework will require a paradigm shift in thinking which will produce change that is transformative, change that over time results in fundamental improvements which can and must be measured and not just change for the sake of change.

In developing this Framework, an integrated and inclusive consultative approach was undertaken, taking into full account Fiji’s current development performance and the increasingly competitive global environment. The approach involved two processes over a 6-month period: (i) a series of roundtable meetings at Provincial level; and (ii) a number of technical thematic working group meetings. These two processes culminated in a National Summit in june 2014.

Fiji has, over the past decade, recorded significant progress with developing and strengthening its national enabling environment which is a crucial pre-condition for development that is sustainable. This has included the integration of sustainable development principles into its national plans through regular review processes and engagement in multi-stakeholder processes, in particular with donor partners.

Regulatory and institutional arrangements need to be further developed and the national enabling environment strengthened in order to support the application of this Green Growth Framework in Fiji and provide assurance that the risks are identified and countered and moreover that development is sustainable with a focus on the following fundamentals:

• Partnerships;
• Informed Decision-Making;
• Human Resources and Capacity Building;
• Governance Mechanisms and Regulatory Frameworks;
• Technology, Innovation and Development;
• Strengthening Private Sector Development; and
• Finance and Economic Incentives.

Ten Thematic Areas have been identified to stimulate the development and/or strengthening of an integrated and cross-cutting national enabling environment for future development which is sustainable and can be sustained in Fiji. This contrasts with the traditional sector-focused approach which has increasingly been referred to as ‘working in silos’.

This approach also highlights the opportunity the Green Growth Framework provides for Fiji to do business differently and to encourage thinking ‘outside the box’. Furthermore, it is an approach that accepts that ‘business as usual’ is simply no longer an option for Fiji.

Every attempt has been made to keep the Thematic Areas to a manageable number whilst at the same time taking special care to be fully inclusive. The individual Areas are grouped in alignment with one of the three pillars of sustainable development, in order to emphasise that this Green Growth Framework is a tool to support and complement actions which contribute to truly sustainable development.

Each of the ten Thematic Areas includes a section on key challenges and a way forward, including actions and time-bound indicators, intended to support and complement those in the 2010-2014 Roadmap and successor national development plans. It is intended that these support and not duplicate those described in relevant sectoral policies and plans. Given the purpose of the Green Growth Framework to accelerate integrated and inclusive development which is sustainable, individual Thematic Areas necessarily cross-cut to other Thematic Areas. The Thematic Areas identified under the three pillars are:

Environment Pillar:

(i)   Building Resilience to Climate Change and Disasters;

(ii)   Waste Management;

(iii)   Sustainable Island and Ocean Resources;

Social Pillar:

(iv)   Inclusive Social Development;

(v)   Food Security;

(vi)   Freshwater Resources and Sanitation Management;

Economic Pillar:

(vii)   Energy Security;

(viii)   Sustainable Transportation;

(ix)   Technology and Innovation; and

(x)   Greening Tourism and Manufacturing Industries.

Implementation of the Framework is anticipated to commence following its endorsement by Cabinet in july 2014. Nonetheless, it needs to be acknowledged that many actions are already in place in various plans, strategies and policies to provide responses to the identified challenges. The Framework should support and complement these initiatives and thereby contribute to accelerating effective implementation. Essential first steps include the following:

• Making certain  the opportunity is taken to ensure  future national sustainable development efforts are supported and complemented by green growth strategies and actions; and

• Establishing an ongoing advocacy and communication strategy, supported by translation of the Framework into the vernacular languages, which is distributed as widely as possible with the intention of reaching out to all Fijians at the household level.

oversight of the Framework and the reporting process will be the responsibility of a High Level Panel chaired by the Prime Minister (proposed name, High Level Multi-Stakeholder Panel on Sustainable Development) - A clear Terms of Reference for the Panel will be necessary. While membership of the Panel must ensure comprehensive representation from across the stakeholder groups it should at the same time, remain manageable in size. observer status may be appropriate for some stakeholder groups, such as key external donor partners.

Monitoring and also providing advisory reports to the High Level Panel, will be the responsibility of the Ministry of Strategic Planning, National Development and Statistics, assisted as necessary by all other stakeholders, and supplemented by existing reporting and other processes.

In order to ensure effective reporting and monitoring, meaningful time-bound targets are included in the Framework. The structure and cross-cutting nature of the thematic areas of the Framework facilitates a ‘whole of development’ approach, as opposed to a sectoral one. This permits the targets to be achieved by integrated, complementary and synergistic efforts, the outcome of which is the ‘whole is greater than the sum of the parts’. In effect more is done or achieved with less or by way of shared effort which is a guiding principle of the Framework.

To fulfill its overriding purpose as a tool to support development that is sustainable, this Framework has established targets with the following timelines: Short (up to 2 years), Medium (3-5 years), and Long (beyond 5 years). This continuum of timelines, coupled with the ‘living document’ nature of the Framework, will permit achievements to be identified and emerging concerns including new ‘hot spots’ to be recognised and addressed in a timely manner, without any surprises.

Table of Contents

FoREWoRD                                                                                                                                                              4

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY                                                                                                                                                                6

CHAPTER 1: INTRoDUCTIoN                                                                                                                                                       10

CHAPTER 2: VISIoN AND GUIDING PRINCIPLES oF THE FRAMEWoRK                                                                                                                                                          17

CHAPTER 3: bRIEF oVERVIEW oF SoCIo-ECoNoMIC AND ENVIRoNMENTAL   DEVELoPMENT PRoGRESS                                                                                                                                                             19

CHAPTER 4: DEVELoPING AND STRENGTHENING THE NATIoNAL ENAbLING ENVIRoNMENT                                                                                                                                                        22

CHAPTER 5: KEY THEMATIC AREAS                                                                                                                                                                   27

THEMATIC AREA 1: bUILDING RESILIENCE To CLIMATE CHANGE AND DISASTERS                                                                                                                                    29

THEMATIC AREA 2: WASTE MANAGEMENT                                                                                                                                36

THEMATIC AREA 3: SUSTAINAbLE ISLAND AND oCEAN RESoURCES                                                                                                                                    43

THEMATIC AREA 4: INCLUSIVE SoCIAL DEVELoPMENT                                                                                                                                53

THEMATIC AREA 5: FooD SECURITY                                                                                                                                      62

THEMATIC AREA 6: FRESHWATER RESoURCES AND SANITATIoN MANAGEMENT                                                                                                                                69

THEMATIC AREA 7: ENERGY SECURITY                                                                                                                                      74

THEMATIC AREA 8: SUSTAINAbLE TRANSPoRTATIoN                                                                                                                           83

THEMATIC AREA 9: TECHNoLoGY AND INNoVATIoN                                                                                                                                    90

THEMATIC AREA 10: GREENING ToURISM AND MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES                                                                                                                                   95

CHAPTER 6: IMPLEMENTATIoN AND  MoNIToRING ARRANGEMENTS                                                                                                                                                 101 

CHAPTER 1

INTRoDUCTIoN

Fiji is a country of over 300 islands, some one third of which are inhabited, with a total population of some 850,000 spread over a very large part of the South Pacific Ocean. The total land area of approximately 18,700 square kilometres is set within a very large exclusive economic zone of ocean of approximately 1.3million square kilometres.

Today in 2014, Fiji’s environment remains largely a pristine one.

Since independence in 1970, there have been many positive achievements in the pursuit of development that is sustainable. In recent years these include the following key examples, one each from the three pillars of sustainable development:

• Environment: The establishment by the Fiji Locally Managed Marine Areas [FLMMA] Network of locally managed marine areas in 143 of Fiji’s 410 i-qoliqoli areas with 415 tabu (no-take) areas covering over 960 square kilometers;
• Social: The introduction from 2014, of free education at primary and secondary levels and increased support at tertiary level; and

• Economic: The commissioning of the 40 megawatt Nadarivatu renewable hydropower facility in September 2012 which has reduced the Fiji Electricity Authority’s fossil fuel bill by $40 million annually.

However, despite many positive achievements, it cannot be denied that during the period of over four decades since independence, the national drive for economic and social development has disturbed and in some instances placed great pressure on the environment. At the same time the recent global shocks from the financial, food and fuel crises have also had their adverse impacts. It is of vital importance that Fiji must now strengthen its resilience to the adverse impacts of climate change.

During this period of some four decades, economic growth has declined from a peak of 5.6% in the 1970’s to around 2% or less in recent years. At the same time, imports in particular of fossil fuels to “drive the engine room” of growth, have increased to more than a billion Fiji dollars/year or over one third of total imports. Lifestyle diseases, more commonly referred to as NCDs, now account for some 7 out of 10 deaths every year and are increasingly affecting younger people who are part of the current workforce. Every year many tonnes of fertile soil are being lost from many islands as a consequence of unsustainable land management, leaving behind some degraded landscapes and at the same time increasing flooding of low lying coastal land and reef areas while also aggravating the loss of terrestrial and marine biodiversity. Fiji’s large exclusive economic zone is being overfished by non-Fiji owned and registered vessels with minimal return to the Fiji economy, when compared with the true market value of the fish.

Should Fiji continue down this development path, driven in large part by changing consumption and production patterns of its people and which are exacerbated by global events, the balance between the three pillars of sustainable development; economic, social and environmental will be under threat and at the risk of being disturbed. It is now not an option but an imperative to put in place a process that over time will restore this balance and ensure that future development is both sustainable and can be sustained...and that Fiji continues to remain largely pristine.

To ensure this balance is restored, the people of Fiji must be at the centre of development if any such imbalance is to be corrected. However, it must be understood that the people are not only exposed to risks beyond their control, but also the people through their own actions can be the source of many risks. These risks result in “hot spots”1 as development progresses, and can in turn become the root cause of development that is not sustainable.

1The use of “hot spot” in this Green Growth Framework is consistent with its use in the Report of the United Nations Secretary General’s High Level Panel of Eminent Persons on the Post-2015 Development Agenda “A New Global Partnership” (May   2013).

The people of Fiji must

be at the centre of development

Since the people of Fiji must be at the centre of development, improving livelihoods and at the same time reducing poverty are key objectives. It is therefore everyone’s business to play whatever role each can in contributing to restoring the balance. For development to be sustainable it is everyone’s business to have an understanding, as far as is practically possible of the benefits as well as the costs of development. The risks of a particular development option must be determined and quantified and a decision then made as to whether the risks are acceptable or not. If the risks are not acceptable, the development must not proceed. If the risks are acceptable, development should plan to avoid or eliminate them. If this cannot be done, the risks must be minimised through mitigation or adaptation actions.

The establishment of this Green Growth Framework is intended to provide an opportunity in which everyone, government, nongovernment, the private sector, faith-based organisations, academia, the media, urban and rural communities and individuals alike can identify the role they must each play in the pursuit of restoring the balance in development that is sustainable.

This Green Growth Framework is the first initiative of its kind for Fiji and must be seen as a “living document.” Whilst many direct interventions will be obvious, there are many more that are indirect and/or will emerge as people adopt the paradigm shift in thinking and behaviour that the framework requires.

In order to be successful, it is essential that the Framework will have strong national ownership by all stakeholders, possess robust communications and advocacy support and be subject to quality testing as well as regular monitoring and review over a timeframe of perhaps 10-20 years. Moreover, it should be clearly perceived as a tool to support and complement the 2010-2014 Roadmap for Democracy and Sustainable Socio-Economic Development and its successor national development documents.

This Green Growth Framework adopts the vision of the Roadmap: A Better Fiji for All.

THE GREEN GRowTH FRAMEwoRk FoR FiJi

A national assessment report of june 2013, with the theme “Accelerating an Integrated Approach to Sustainable Development” reports that “green growth” will be introduced as a tool to support sustainable development into future development strategies in Fiji. Successful implementation of the Green Growth Framework will require a paradigm shift in thinking which will result in change that is transformative, change that over time results in fundamental improvements that can and must be measured and not just change for the sake of change.

Fiji will continue to honour its commitment towards sustainable development and recognise that the post-2015

Global Development Agenda will shift international focus from the human/social focused Millennium Development

It is therefore critical that Fiji develops a Green Growth Framework as a tool to support its efforts towards development which is sustainable. It is anticipated that this initiative will assist in securing the essential support of partners.

This Green Growth Framework for Fiji is a tool to accelerate integrated and inclusive sustainable development which will inspire action at all levels, to strengthen environmental resilience, build social improvement and reduce poverty, support economic growth and strengthen capacity to withstand and manage the adverse effects of climate change. It is underpinned by the following:

innovative                in finding new transformative solutions to long standing problems, through bold and adaptive leadership and fair and transparent consultative processes, in advancing the transition to a “people-centred green economy in a blue world”.

integrated     for a holistic approach to support development that is sustainable and climate change-resilient.

inclusive                  across all sectors and cultures from the village to corporate boardrooms and creates meaningful partnerships to address the root causes of poverty and promote multi-stakeholder solutions for sustainable social, economic and environmental development.

inspires                    respect for creation and empowers all members of the community to make decisions and take actions to build a green economy in a blue world, supported by the guiding principles of this Green Growth Framework.

investment                in transformational change to better align the economy and society with the environment, in order to sustain livelihoods now and for generations to come.

wHy GREEN GRowTH iN FiJi?

For Fiji as with other countries, the impetus for green growth emanates from the need to better harness natural resources, reduce vulnerability to environmental risks and promote socially inclusive development. Population growth, increasing urbanisation, unsustainable consumption and resource use, infrastructure deficits and increasing frequency of natural disasters due to changing climate heighten the risk of food and energy insecurity and threaten economic and social progress. Left unchecked, natural capital and in particular biodiversity, will steadily decline due to overexploitation of natural resources; invasive species; poor waste management and increasing pollution damage.

The degradation of the Pacific Ocean, especially the marine space of Fiji’s large exclusive economic zone due to overfishing, pollution, climate change-induced damage to coral reefs and other factors, are diminishing the productive capacity of the marine environment as a source of income, cultural identity and food security. Additionally, deforestation is reducing the capacity of our trees to mitigate the effect of carbon emissions. Furthermore, poorly regulated mining activities and marine-based waste disposal further threaten natural capital.

The impacts of climate change will continue to further impede Fiji’s efforts to achieve sustainable development. Fiji is particularly vulnerable to increased frequency and intensity of natural disasters and to sea level rise, which will have negative impacts on food security (through declines in fresh water availability, crop production and fisheries), coral reef and forest biodiversity and the prevalence of certain infectious diseases (especially those spread through contaminated water, lack of safe drinking water and unsatisfactory sanitation). 

THE GLoBAL AND REGioNAL DEvELoPMENT AGENDA AND GREEN GRowTH

Green growth first emerged in the international development agenda in May 2006 at the 5th Meeting of Asia and Pacific Environment Ministers in Seoul. The green growth approach sought to harmonise the two imperatives of: (i) economic growth and; (ii) environmental sustainability. The outcomes document entitled “The Future We Want” of the Third World Conference on Sustainable Development held in june 2012 emphasises that green growth is a tool to support development that is sustainable. Most recently, in May 2013, the Report of the UN High Level Panel of Eminent Persons on the Post-2015 Development Agenda “A New Global Partnership” identified ‘sustainable development’ as one of five transformational shifts at the core of the way forward but recognized that “no country has yet achieved this”.

At the regional level the Pacific Preparatory Meeting hosted by Fiji in July 2013, in the lead-up to the Third World Conference on Small Islands Developing States in Samoa in September 2014, the critical importance of a green growth strategy was advocated as a key component of sustainable development, including the importance of public-private partnerships.

On 30th March 2012, Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) leaders, through the MSG Declaration on Environment and Climate Change, agreed on the development of a green growth framework which would assist member countries in pursuing integrated sustainable development, in order to restore the balance between the environmental, societal and economic pillars of sustainable development. The objective of a MSG green growth framework was to enhance economic growth and development through the avoidance of loss of biodiversity and the unsustainable use of natural resources and the prevention of environmental degradation, all with a view to improving society’s welfare.

Source: Ministry of Information, Fiji News Summary (Minfo News [[email protected]])

More on the international agenda for Green Growth

In june 2012 Fiji, represented by the Prime Minister accompanied by representatives from government and non-government agencies and the private sector, attended the Third World Summit on Sustainable Development in Rio. The outcome document “The Future We Want,” describes green growth as a new tool to support sustainable development and the many principles associated with green growth (Para 58).

Key amongst the many green growth principles to promote sustained and inclusive economic growth for Fiji and its Pacific SIDS neighbours are the following,

• Respect for national sovereignty over natural resources taking into account national circumstances, objectives, responsibilities, priorities and policy space with regard to the three dimensions of sustainable development.
• Support from an effective national enabling environment and well-functioning institutions at all levels with a leading role for governments and with the participation of all relevant stakeholders, including civil society.
• Strengthened international cooperation, including the provision of financial resources, capacity building and technology transfers.
• Effective avoidance of unwarranted conditionalities on ODA and finance.
• Enhance the welfare of people and their communities, recognizing and supporting their identity, culture and interests and avoid endangering their cultural heritage, practices and traditional knowledge.
• Enhance the welfare of women, children, youth, persons with disabilities, smallholder and subsistence farmers, fishers, and those working in small and medium enterprise, and improve the livelihoods and empowerment of the poor and vulnerable groups.
• Mobilise the full potential and ensure equal contribution of both women and men

• Address the concern about inequalities and promote social inclusion, including social protection floors.
• Promote sustainable consumption and production patterns. 

In addition, the Pacific Islands Development Forum (PIDF) at its meetings hosted by Fiji in August 2013 and June 2014 respectively agreed that the Pacific needs to assert a distinctive Pacific model of “green growth in blue economies” aligned to sustainable development principles, recognising that the current economic growth model is flawed. It further underlined the vital importance of the Pacific Ocean in this vast region and single largest geographical feature on the planet. The PIDF model for the Pacific promised a way forward, by offering a system of economic development that ensures both economic growth and long-term viability of human culture and the environment. It recognizes that by reformulating the approach to economic growth it is not necessary to sacrifice the natural world or human wellbeing, in order to achieve true wealth.

More recently, on 26th February this year, Fiji became the member of Global Green Growth Institute (GGGI), a new intergovernmental organization founded to support and promote green growth. With this new cooperation arrangement, the GGGI can now assist Fiji by channeling its knowledge base, networks and experience through technical assistance to support the implementation of our green growth strategies.

SoME BENEFiTS oF GREEN GRowTH FoR FiJi

Some of the benefits for Fiji of Green Growth under the three pillars of development are:

Economic benefits

• Increased Gross Domestic Product – in particular through the production of green goods and services;
• Increased revenue from pricing ecosystem services (or any reduction prevented);
• Economic diversification, including improved management of economic risks and reduced vulnerability;
• Innovation, access and uptake of green technologies.

Environmental benefits

• Increased productivity and efficiency of natural resource use;
• Natural capital used within ecological limits;
• Reduced adverse environmental impact and improved natural hazard/risk management especially to future

changes in climate.

Social benefits

• Increased livelihood opportunities, income and/or quality of life, notably of the poor;
• Decent jobs that benefit poor people created and sustained;
• Enhanced social, human and knowledge capital;
• Reduced inequality. 

More on the international agenda for Green Growth The PIDF outcome declaration acknowledges ten elements that will contribute to achieving Green-Blue Pacific Economies.

• Leadership that is inclusive at all levels and amongst  all stakeholders.

• Recognition of the role of healthy and happy people in sustainable development ensuring a whole of society approach and partnerships.
• Valuation of the Pacific common and collective assets including the development of critical ecological, social, and spiritual/ cultural indicators.
• Implement long term financing mechanisms that support communities.

• Rigour in the implementation of key national and regional commitments.

• Reform  of  financial  systems  at  national,  regional and international levels.

• Education and capacity building to ensure people’s awareness of sustainability and that national skills mix is sufficient to implement a people-centred green-blue economy.
• Sustainable transport that reduces fossil fuel imports and promotes effective services to remote island communities.

• Food and nutrition security by prioritizing inclusive and sustainable agricultural and fisheries development.
• Re-energising the Pacific with renewable energy alternatives and improved energy efficiency.

An integrated and inclusive consultative approach was undertaken in the light of Fiji’s current development performance and the increasingly competitive global environment.

This Framework and the National Summit hosted by the Prime Minister in june 2014 which announced the Framework, resulted from the consultations and outcomes of two processes, namely: (i) a series of roundtable meetings; and (ii) a number of thematic working group meetings. The Summit was convened on 12-13th June 2014 and included representation from all national stakeholder groups as well as from regional and international development partners. The purpose of the Forum was to refine and seek stakeholder consensus for the Framework, prior to submission to Cabinet for formal endorsement.

Roundtable Meetings

The series of roundtable consultations involved discussion on the draft Green Growth Framework. As part of the multi-stakeholder approach, the roundtable meetings involved representatives from communities, civil society, private sector, and government. To be cost effective, the roundtable consultations were organised with the Provincial Development board meetings.

Thematic working Group Meetings

Ten Thematic Working Groups were established to deliberate on contemporary and emerging development challenges. The Working Groups provided technical insights and perspectives on each of the following thematic areas:

• Building Resilience to Climate Change and Disasters;
• Waste Management;
• Sustainable Island and Ocean Resources;
• Inclusive Social Development;
• Food Security;
• Freshwater Resources and Sanitation Management;
• Energy Security;
• Sustainable Transportation;
• Technology and Innovation; and
• Greening Tourism and Manufacturing Industries.

 © WWF - Pacific

VISIoN AND GUIDING PRINCIPLES oF THE

FRAMEWoRK

viSioN

The adoption of the Peoples Charter for Change, Peace and Progress in 2008 marked a new course of Fiji’s development agenda. The Peoples Charter set very clear guidelines for building a sustainable and efficient development model, based on the collective commitment of the people of Fiji. The overarching objective of the Charter remains key to rebuilding Fiji into a non-racial, culturally vibrant and united, well-governed, truly democratic nation; a nation that seeks progress and prosperity through merit-based equality of opportunity and peace.

built upon the Peoples Charter, the 2010-2014 Roadmap for Democracy and Sustainable Socio-Economic Development set out a strategic framework to achieve sustainable democracy, good and just governance, socio- economic development and national unity. It was compiled in consultation with private sector, civil society and government in order to take full account of the political, social and economic situation, both on the domestic and international fronts.

The objective of the Roadmap is to implement policies to achieve the Vision of “A better Fiji for All” which is consistent with the Peoples Charter. It is logical that the Roadmap Vision is adopted for this Green Growth Framework, since the latter is a tool to progress the former.

GuiDiNG PRiNCiPLES

The vision for building a better Fiji for all is driven by the following elements: equality and dignity of all citizens, respect for the diverse cultural, religious and philosophical beliefs, unity among people driven by a common purpose and citizenship, good and just governance, sustainable economic growth, social and economic justice, equitable access to the benefits of development including the meeting of basic needs and the provision of services, merit-based equality of opportunities for all; and responsible stewardship of Fiji’s ecosystem.

To support this vision and taking into consideration the global and regional developments in green growth, the guiding principles of the Green Growth Framework for Fiji are as follows:

• Reducing carbon ‘footprints’ at all levels;
• Improving resource productivity (including by doing more with less);
• Developing a new integrated approach, with all stakeholders collectively working together for the common good. The cross-cutting nature of issues relating to sustainable development requires harmony and synergy in the development strategies;
• Strengthening socio-cultural education of responsible environmental stewardship and civic responsibility;
• Increasing the adoption of comprehensive risk management practices;
• Increasing the adoption of environment auditing of past and planned developments in order to support initiatives that not only provide economic benefits but also improve the environmental situation;
• Enhancing structural reforms for fair competition and efficiency; and
• Providing incentives for investment which support the efficient use of natural resources.

Source: Ministry of Information, Fiji News Summary (Minfo News  [[email protected]])

bRIEF oVERVIEW oF SoCIo-ECoNoMIC AND

ENVIRoNMENTAL DEVELoPMENT PRoGRESS

The Fiji economy has been assessed to have the potential to sustainably grow by 5% per annum. However, political instability, low investor confidence, low productivity, land tenure issues, inadequate investment in infrastructure, incompatible and inconsistent policies in some areas and a weak legal environment for business, have suppressed realizing this potential. On average, the economy has grown modestly in the past 8 years measured against a base in 2005. However, through the reforms implemented by Government and major investments in infrastructure, the pace of growth has increased to 2.6% on average over the past 3 years. As of April 2014, the economy is poised to grow at 3.8 percent on the back of recent reforms and improved domestic business confidence and this augurs well with the recent upgrade from Standard and Poor’s rating outlook from stable to positive. The major factors contributing to this growth are expected gains from implementation of the Sugar Development Programme, growth in the forestry sector, significant capital works and expansion in the mining sector, expected positive growth in manufacturing, construction, electricity, transport and storage, accommodation and food services as well as in the information and communication sector.

Investment in Fiji, whether private or public, is a pre-requisite for growth. The level of investment over the past decade has hovered between 14-18% of GDP. This is well below the average levels of 22% recorded in the 1970s and 25% in the years before 1987. Inflation in the past 8 years averaged around 4.9%, and price changes were largely due to policy adjustments by government, volatile global food and fuel prices, and trading partner inflation. A large proportion of Fiji’s inflation is due to imports, representing around 60% of domestic inflation. In 2014, inflation is forecasted at 3.0%. An unfavorable trade balance has been a concern, averaging around $1.8 billion deficit over the last five years. However, the strong growth in tourism earnings in recent years from a level of $607 million in 2007 to $1.2 billion in 2012, has cushioned the impact of this trade deficit on Fiji’s balance of payments position.

In recent years, Fiji has been adopting an expansionary fiscal approach in an attempt to stimulate the economy in the wake of low private sector investment and volatility in the global markets. From 2002 to 2006 Government operated with an average net deficit of 4.4% of GDP. To prudently manage the burgeoning public debt, which increased from $2.83 billion in 2004 to $3.68 billion in 2012 (equivalent to 50.9% of GDP), a fiscal consolidation strategy was adopted in the succeeding period (2007-2012) in order to contain the net deficit to 1.7% on average in this period. Excluding 2011, total annual debt repayments have averaged $201.8 million. Debt repayments peaked at $504.5 million in 2011 due to the settlement of the global bond of US$150 million, issued in 2006.

over the past two decades, national assessments on poverty have revealed a declining incidence. From a level of 37.5% in 1996, the incidence of poverty, as measured against a periodically reviewed basic needs poverty line, was assessed at 35% and 31% from the Household Income and Expenditure Surveys of 2002/03 and 2008/09 respectively. The distribution of poverty is skewed with the rural population assessed to have a much higher incidence than the urban population.

Employment provides the most rapid route out of poverty. However, the economy has not been able to generate sufficient new jobs annually to accommodate the 20,000 school leavers. In a recent survey, unemployment was assessed at 6.9%. Labour force participation rates increased from 38.4% in 1996 to 40% in 2007. While the participation rate of males increased by 2%, that of females fell by 30% in the period, due to higher unemployment and engagement in subsistence activities. In addition, existing wage rates across industries have not kept pace with the rising cost of living. The first national minimum wage rate was set at $2 per hour in January 2014 to ensure workers are able to meet their basic needs. In the recent wage survey, it was found in some areas, especially among small and micro enterprises, the wage was as low as $1.50 per hour. The current national minimum wage rate represents an increase of 33%.

The environment and its resources have been the backbone of both the economy and employment. While the economy has been historically dominated by agriculture and mining, in recent decades forestry, fishing and tourism have become increasingly important. Accompanying this broadening of natural resource use, has been the increasing demand on freshwater water resources for both hydropower generation and drinking water. Whether for subsistence consumption or income earning there have been increasing risks to the environment and loss of biodiversity. Changes in both consumption and production patterns have led to increasing volumes of both solid and liquid waste being produced with associated pollution to the environment. For Fiji, the new millennium has bought change at a rate which is unprecedented and unrelenting, particularly in terms of impact on the environment. The factor which will have the greatest impact over the medium and long term is that of climate change. Managing the impact of climate change will require focus on adaptation and mitigation through building community resilience, strengthening food security, enforcement of standards on buildings and structures, and protecting coastal communities by way of reinforcement or in some cases, relocation.

The 2013 Constitution now provides for inclusive socio-economic development and guarantees all citizens the right to a clean and healthy environment - this includes the right to have the natural world protected for the benefit of present and future generations.

Roadwork at Dreketi - Nabouwalu Highway, Vanua Levu, November  2013

Source: Ministry of Information, Fiji News Summary (Minfo News  [[email protected]])

CHAPTER 4

DEVELoPING AND STRENGTHENING THE NATIoNAL  ENAbLING ENVIRoNMENT

over the past decade, good progress has been recorded with developing and strengthening the national enabling environment, a crucial pre-condition for development which is sustainable. This includes integration of sustainable development principles into national plans through regular reviews and engagement in multi- stakeholder processes, including with donor partners.

To build on these gains, a more integrated people-centered framework is needed to secure Fiji’s future, which combines and strengthens the linkages between environmental sustainability, economic development and social development. This Green Growth Framework for Fiji, which is hinged upon the ten thematic areas (Chapter 5) is supported and complemented by developing and strengthening the national enabling environment.

Recognising the necessity for pursuing development which is sustainable, through a people-centred integrative and innovative approach and that many aspects of development are cross-cutting in nature, this chapter focuses on the required policy-mix to facilitate the implementation of the time-bound targets developed from the “Challenges and Way Forward” for each thematic area. This will ensure full consistency with the international development agenda being considered for the post-2015 period.

In 1994, an overarching message in the first paragraph of the Declaration of the Barbados Programme of Action for Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) asserts “…that human resources and cultural heritage are SIDS most significant assets and the central position of people in sustainable development must be assured”. Fiji is party to this declaration.

In 2012 at the Rio+20 Third International Conference on Sustainable Development, important enablers of sustainable development were identified. The availability of finance in accordance with national priorities and needs is especially important. Private sector participation, together with a spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation, plus structural reforms, can also be important enablers. Technology transfer and cooperation among countries in research and development is helpful in strengthening national capacities for sustainable development. This not only includes north-south cooperation as well as south-south cooperation by Fiji, both with island countries within the Pacific and other global developing countries - this is complementary to other forms of capacity building, such as human resource development, strengthening institutional capacity, including planning, management and monitoring capacity.

In the Peoples Charter, 2010-2014 Roadmap and the 2013 Constitution, the provisions for a national enabling environment for sustainable development are aimed at achieving sustainable democracy, good and just governance, inclusive socio-economic development, national unity and healthy environment.

This chapter considers the regulatory and institutional arrangements needed to further develop and strengthen the national enabling environment, in order to support the application of this Green Growth Framework in Fiji and to provide assurance that risks are identified and addressed and that development is sustainable.

PARTNERSHiPS

While Government leadership is essential, meaningful participation is needed from all national stakeholders. Genuine partnerships between Government, the private sector, development partners, and communities are therefore the key to success. Any adjustments in the institutional framework to support the use of this Green Growth Framework as a catalyst to sustainable development, must ensure no one is excluded. .

Established procedures exist at different levels for private sector and civil society input into the decision-making machinery through the National budget; National Peoples Charter Advisory Council; National Environment Council; Provincial and Divisional Development boards and National Councils operating in the social sector. Adjustments to the institutional framework will need to create conditions which ensure the Fijian people are always at the centre of sustainable development efforts.

The establishment of a High Level Multi-Stakeholder Panel for Sustainable Development will provide the necessary mechanism for Government, the private sector, civil society, academia, communities and donor partners to work together, to ensure policies are well aligned, better coordinated and people-focused.

Full participation in regional and global development processes, including being party to existing and any new instruments, will assist greatly with ensuring Fiji responds effectively to its obligations.

iNFoRMED  DECiSioN-MAkiNG

It is simply not possible to effectively manage what is not accurately measured. It will therefore be vital that the processes for the compilation and analysis of data, to support informed decision-making, are strengthened across the three pillars of sustainable development.

It is essential that informed decision-making is supported by analyses of risks and full cost-benefit analyses which not only evaluate the benefits but also identifies the costs. For example, it needs to be acknowledged that in the past anticipated socio-economic benefits have resulted in costs to the environment being overlooked because of lack of data on the environment. This “data gap” needs to be addressed, recognising that many environmental indices are variable over time and are likely to change (become more frequent and intense) as a result of the impacts of climate change.

It must be anticipated that sustainable development goals will need to be identified for Fiji, as is proposed at the international level, to replace the Millennium Development Goals in the post-2015 period. This must be supported by a robust national data gathering and information management initiative. As the global discussions on the post- 2015 development agenda suggest, “A Data Revolution” is required.

As an essential step to developing and strengthening the current national enabling environment, policies and supporting documents must contain a broader set of people-focused goals and indicators, for which necessary data gathering and monitoring capacity, storage and information sharing mechanisms are progressively put in place. A National Information System that is spatial (GIS-based) and at the right level and scale, will necessarily be the preferred data storage and access modality. The knowledge derived over time will then better inform decision- making and facilitate meaningful reporting on progress with sustainable development, as well as highlight “hot spots” for attention.

Relevant economic, social and environmental data and information must be incorporated into processes for the National Accounts, the National budget and relevant National Plans and Policies, in particular at sector level. Regular public expenditure reviews are necessary to identify programme budget areas which will be relevant for sustainable development, including identification of any spending that may result in barriers to growth. This will allow for informed decision-making on possible reallocation of resources and public expenditure.

HuMAN RESouRCES AND CAPACiTy BuiLDiNG

Human resource development is fundamental to ensuring sufficient capacity and skills are available. Priorities for human resource development should include: appropriate support for data gathering and analysis; research in engineering, science and technology; re-training for workers through skill enhancement programmes; and increasing awareness and understanding of the principles of sustainable development and the opportunity the application of this Green Growth Framework provides for the future. Securing the necessary investment from all potential donor partner sources, will remain a key strategy.

GovERNANCE MECHANiSMS AND REGuLAToRy FRAMEwoRkS

Internal governance mechanisms need strengthening at all levels. Inadequate legal and institutional frameworks and lack of capacity has hindered planning and implementation of past sustainable development strategies. Despite efforts by many, consumption and production have become un-balanced and the principle consumers, the people, have not been rightfully placed at the centre of development.

better coordination and linkages are needed both across and within different agencies and sectors, to fully integrate the three pillars of sustainable development (economic, social and environmental). This requires some adjustment to key Government processes and mechanisms for policy formulation and implementation, including the National budget and National Strategic Development Plans.

Fiji must remain a strong advocate for international governance mechanisms which support sustainable development. In particular, these include international and regional conventions and mechanisms for: green growth; climate change; biodiversity; and the post-2015 Sustainable Development Goals in relation to inclusive social and economic development, environmental management, human rights and poverty reduction.

Good governance is widely regarded as being crucial for sustainable development. Strengthening good governance has been a national development priority for two decades and is a major component of the Peoples Charter and the Roadmap. The 2013 Constitution guarantees equality for all citizens and inclusive sustainable development. Strong leadership and effective administration of Fiji’s bill of Rights, accountability and anti-corruption frameworks, will lay the foundation for successful transition to green growth.

Well-designed, effective and efficient regulatory and compliance mechanisms are essential. Structural reforms have been implemented to better realise Fiji’s growth potential, improve public service efficiency, reduce vulnerability to shocks and alleviate poverty. Further enhancing the investment climate, improving land use and management, upgrading of infrastructure and maintaining improved performance of State-owned Enterprises (SOEs) remain major priorities. Within this context, greater self-regulation and compliance must be encouraged.

TECHNoLoGy,  iNNovATioN  AND DEvELoPMENT

Technology awareness and enhanced access, particularly in relation to initial up-front costs, are major challenges for technological innovation and development in Fiji and remain a priority in ensuring improved productivity and more efficient use of resources. Support for technology and innovation requires identification of Fiji’s specific needs in key areas for green growth and in providing appropriate incentives to facilitate access.

In particular developments in information and communication technologies (ICTs) are crucial if Fiji is to become a well informed society and the ICT hub for the region. Whilst the benefits are clear, the costs (such as for increased speed and ease of access) must be made more affordable.

STRENGTHENiNG PRivATE SECToR DEvELoPMENT

A major challenge to sustainably growing the economy has been the low levels of private sector investment. Enhancing private sector development is crucial to realising Fiji’s economic potential, particularly through:

• Improving the regulatory environment for starting and operating a business – including appropriate fair trade as well as weights and measurement standards for consumer protection; 

• Creating a more welcoming environment for foreign investment;
• Facilitating contract enforcement;
• Rationalising investment incentives;
• Strengthening infrastructure services; and
• Enhancing access to land, finance and financial services.

FiNANCE AND ECoNoMiC iNCENTivES

The ultimate success of this Green Growth Framework will require substantial finance and investment in infrastructure, natural resource management as well as capacity and skills development. In addition to domestic resource mobilisation, other potential sources include Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), Overseas Development Assistance (ODA), public-private partnerships (PPP) and other options, to cover the costs of start-ups. All finance options need to be considered.

• RevenuePolicywill play an increasingly important role in Fiji’s transition to green growth. options include taxing unsustainable behavior and incentives to assist green industries. Particular attention should be given to incentives to encourage renewable energy, recycling, waste management, green production and technological innovation. Tougher penalties for over pollution and poor waste disposal also warrant consideration. 

• Expenditure Policy can support transition to a green economy through strategies such as public procurement of green goods and services; possible grants for greening industries and technological innovation similar to support for market access under the National Export Strategy; prioritising the delivery of green goods and services through the micro, small, and medium enterprise development programmes; and shifting any subsidies from brown activities towards green growth. 

• Foreign Direct investment is needed to develop industries, technology and practices that directly benefit the environment because these are developed largely outside Fiji. Restrictions on foreign ownership, repatriation of profits and high tariffs can be barriers to green FDI and technology transfer. A review of current investment policies and regulations is needed in order to identify areas where adjustments can be made to support green FDI, particularly to facilitate technology transfer and capacity building.

• Public Private Partnerships offer a model for using public funds to mitigate risks and attract private investment. This could be most relevant in sectors where investment is limited by concerns over technology, regulatory and market risks and high financing costs. The regulatory framework will need to be streamlined in order to facilitate PPP in green infrastructure development.

• overseas Development Assistance is an important source of finance for green investments, building where relevant on proven practice from similar situations. Major projects in renewable energy and sustainable agriculture can be financed along with other smaller initiatives possessing strong potential, such as feasibility studies, pilot projects and technical training. A more concerted effort is needed to pursue aid funds pledged to developing countries in support of sustainable development and improving coordination for all non- government stakeholders (private sector, civil society and development partners).

Arrival of new Fiji Airways A330, March 2013

Source: Ministry of Information, Fiji News Summary (Minfo News  [[email protected]])

CHAPTER 5

KEY THEMATIC AREAS

The ten Thematic Areas which have been identified will require an integrated and cross cutting national focus, supported by an enabling environment (Chapter 4) to ensure future development is both sustainable and can be sustained on an ongoing basis. This contrasts with the traditional sector-focused approach which has increasingly been referred to as “working in silos”.

This new modus operandi highlights the opportunity which the Green Growth Framework provides for Fiji to do business differently and it encourages thinking outside the box. Furthermore, it is a strategy which recognises that business as usual is no longer an option for Fiji.

Every attempt has been made to restrict the Thematic Areas to a manageable number whilst at the same time being fully inclusive. In this chapter the Areas are grouped in alignment with the three pillars of sustainable development in order to emphasise that the Green Growth Framework is a tool to support and complement actions which contribute to development that is sustainable.

Environment Pillar:

• Building Resilience to Climate Change and Disasters;
• Waste Management; and
• Sustainable Island and Ocean Resources.

Social Pillar:

• Inclusive Social Development;
• Food Security; and
• Freshwater Resources and Sanitation Management.

Economic Pillar:

• Energy Security;
• Sustainable Transportation;
• Technology and Innovation; and 

• Greening Tourism and Manufacturing Industries.

Each of the ten Thematic Areas includes a section on key challenges as well as on the preferred way forward, including actions and time-bound indicators. These are intended to support and complement those in the 2010- 2014 Roadmap and successor national development plans. They are intended to support and not duplicate those described in relevant sectoral policies and plans. Given the intention of the Green Growth Framework to accelerate integrated and inclusive development which is sustainable, these necessarily cross-cut to other Thematic Areas.

Thematic Area 1

building Resilience to Climate Change and Disasters

Slip at Naiborebore Hill, Kings Road after heavy rain, February 2014

Source: Ministry of Information, Fiji News Summary (Minfo News  [[email protected]])

1.     iNTRoDuCTioN

The adverse impacts of climate change and climate variability requires the development of adaptation and mitigations strategies which will build resilience across all aspects of Fiji’s development agenda. As with many other Pacific small island developing states, strengthening resilience to climate change impacts and to extremes of weather is being closely coordinated with the overarching issue of reducing the risk of disasters.

The harsh impacts anticipated from climate change and associated extreme weather events may further impede efforts to achieve sustainable development. Some of the main climatic challenges facing the Pacific include: sea level rise and intense flooding which threaten water supply, coastal infrastructure and land areas; increased frequency and intensity of natural disasters which in turn may have negative impacts on food security (caused by a decline in freshwater availability, crop production and fisheries), coral reefs and forest biodiversity and the spread of certain diseases (especially through contaminated water)2.

Fiji’s small size, vulnerability to climate change and climate variability, manmade and natural hazards coupled with the pace of socio-economic development exacerbated by rapid urbanisation has resulted in an increase in squatter and informal settlements. The consequent rise in construction and economic activity in disaster-prone and high risk areas requires a more holistic approach in efforts to reduce vulnerability and risk.

Although some mitigation and prevention measures in regard to these developments are in place in relevant institutions responsible for regulatory control and public administration, a more integrated and targeted approach is clearly necessary. The greatest challenge is the identification of the specific adaptation strategies to be applied in order to reduce current and future risks.

2Secretariat of the Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), Factsheet Pacific Climate Change, http://archive.iwlearn.net/www.sprep.org/factsheets/pdfs/pacificclimate.   pdf, 2008. World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), Report on ‘State of the Planet,   2010.

1. CuRRENTSTATuS

(i)     ovERviEw oF ExiSTiNG PoLiCiES, LEGiSLATioNS AND iNiTiATivES

Fiji signed the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) convention in 1992 and ratified it in 1993. Fiji’s commitments to this Convention are outlined in the National Climate Change Policy of 2012. The Mauritius Strategy 2005–2015 and the Barbados Plan of Action 1994, which attempt to address the problems of small island developing states (SIDS) have climate change as a significant issue. Fiji will continue to contribute to the implementation of the Mauritius Strategy 2005–2015 and the Barbados Plan of Action through the implementation of the NationalClimate Change Policy. At the regional level the Pacific Island Framework for Action on Climate Change 2006–2015 (currently under review) is focused on building the resilience of communities to combat the impacts of climate change.

The National Climate Change Policy provides the framework which guides government’s strategic direction on issues relating to climate change, climate variability and sea level rise. The policy has eight policy objectives which are focused on mainstreaming, data collection, storage and sharing, awareness raising, education and training, adaptation, mitigation and financing.

In relation to Disaster Risk Management, Fiji endorsed the Hyogo Framework for Action 2005 – 2015 and the Pacific Disaster Risk Reduction and Disaster Management Framework for Action 2005 – 2015 (currently under review). The global and regional policy instruments advocate for further action to strengthen the resilience and safety of communities in relation to natural and other hazards.

Fiji national disaster management arrangements are covered under the Natural Disaster Management Act 1998 and the National Disaster Management Plan of 1995. There is greater recognition and acceptance that in order to adequately respond to and manage disasters there must be a comprehensive approach to the management of risks associated with them. In this connection a draft National Disaster Risk Management Arrangements was developed in 2006 which attempted to synchronise efforts to respond to disasters and provide a mechanism for an all-hazard approach to disaster management.

Tropical Cyclone Evan, December 2012

On December 16-17, 2012, Tropical Cyclone Evan (a category 4 cyclone) ravaged northern Vanua Levu and western Viti Levu. No lives were lost due to a well coordinated and proactive response by Government and the community. Damages and losses of close to $195 million were estimated to have been incurred, particularly in tourism, housing and agriculture. The impact of the cyclone compounded the damage experienced by communities in western Viti Levu from widespread flooding in January and March the same year. Total recovery and reconstruction costs for cyclone Evan were estimated at $134 million. over the last 40 years, Fiji has experienced tropical cyclone events almost every 1-2 years.

Photo courtesy of Fiji Meteorological Services

The current regional policy context for climate change and disaster risk management is undergoing a rapid change across the Pacific. At the regional level a new initiative is underway to develop a “Strategy for Climate and Disaster Resilient Development for the Pacific” which will succeed the existing and separate regional policy frameworks3.

Fiji, much like its neighbouring small island developing states, is keen to develop an integrated approach to address risk, beginning work in 2006 to develop a national strategy for all hazard risk management4. With the increased momentum provided by the development of the regional Strategy for Climate and Disaster Resilient Development, Government is committed to integrate climate change and disaster risk management into the national planning and budgeting process and the current Climate Finance Readiness Programme and Climate Public Expenditure and Institutional Review is expected to propose a way forward.

In support of integration, consideration needs to be given to the development of a national level Strategic Plan for Climate and Disaster Resilience to ensure that the actions recommended by related strategies are implemented in an integrated manner, thus minimising waste of resources and promoting efficiencies in vulnerability reduction. The development and implementation of such a plan will provide a stronger contextual basis for revising governance and institutional arrangements for disaster risk management and climate change. It will allow Fiji to bring about a more coordinated approach to dealing with issues of vulnerability and risk and most importantly it will help to facilitate the mainstreaming of climate change and disaster risk considerations within the national and sub national development planning and resource allocation mechanisms.

3Pacific Islands Framework for Action on Climate Change 2006 -  2015

4Government of Fiji 2006. Fiji National Disaster Risk Management Arrangements: Building the resilience of Fiji’s communities to natural and human-caused hazards. October. (Unpublished).

(ii)       REviEw oF PERFoRMANCE iN THE CoNTExT oF SuSTAiNABLE DEvELoPMENT

Historically, Fiji experiences one to two tropical cyclone-related disasters annually, plus at least one major flood. In the 30-year period over 1983-2012, Fiji reported 106 natural hazard-related disasters including 49 disasters caused by tropical cyclones, 38 by floods, plus numerous additional severe storms, landslides and droughts5. based on existing data, only 70 per cent of these disasters were costed to any degree. The total assessed cost of disasters reported over the 30-year period was US$ 1.2 billion6, with an average disaster cost of US$ 11.7 million, although average costs are likely to be higher, given that 30 per cent of events were not costed at all and most assessments did not take into account the value of economic losses. As outlined in box 1, the most recent devastating cyclone to impact Fiji was Tropical Cyclone Evan in December 2012 and caused estimated damage and loss valued at $195 million.

Natural disasters have a debilitating impact on the socio-economic development of Fiji. At a social level, a recent assessment demonstrated that disasters make communities in Fiji poorer and that poverty exacerbates the scale of national disasters7. At an economic level, disasters drain resources that could have otherwise been used to support national development. For example, the cost of damage by natural disasters8 in 2012 alone was estimated at approximately $208 million. This required an investment of around $43 million for rehabilitation and recovery of key sectors within Government. This rehabilitation cost does not take into account those personal costs incurred by the individuals and the private sector. Majority of the economic losses arising from disaster events such as floods are incurred by industries and business located within the ambit of vulnerable municipalities. This calls for the need to build safer cities and towns for long term sustainability.

Vunidogoloa Village in the tikina of Koroalau, Cakaudrove Province on Vanua Levu was the first village in Fiji to be relocated due to rising sea level. Vulnerability assessments have identified 676 communities around the country threatened in some way by loss of coastal land or infrastructure, flooding and from storm surges. Of these, 42 communities have been identified for potential relocation.

Photo courtesy of Fiji Government Online Portal ww w.fiji.gov.fj

5Pacific Damage and Loss Database –  www.pdalo.net.

6Calculated based on Pacific Damage and Loss Database  records.

7Lal, P., Singh, R. and Holland, P. 2009, Relationship between Natural Disasters and Poverty: A Fiji Case