The government is moving away from building concrete-based infrastructure to nature-based infrastructure in climate change affected areas.

Climate Change Minister Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum says the nature-based infrastructure is more effective at protecting communities from increases in erosion, flooding and sea level rises.

Sayed Khaiyum says a classic example is the Naveicovatu village Vetiver Grass project which is now a model for climate vulnerable communities around the world.

“The need to build our resilience to climate impacts grows more urgent by the day. For that very reason, Fiji has also emerged as a global champion for the cause of climate adaptation, spurring the world to put resources behind real solutions that adapt vulnerable communities to climate impacts.”

He adds the government has invested in nature-based solutions as the grass is non- invasive, removes pollutants and also promotes soil conservation.

The government is looking at providing similar assistance to 22 other villages along the Wainibuka River.