Smarter development practices are needed to minimise damage to the environment and biodiversity of Pacific Island countries.

This was highlighted at the Regional Mitigation Hierarchy and Biodiversity Offsets workshop in Nadi.

Acting Director Environment Aminiasi Qareqare says the projects aims to strengthen the Environment Impact Assessments when carrying out development projects.

“That’s a big plus for us because of Climate Change because by doing Biodiversity offsets we’re increasing our capacity to reduce carbon and also we are enabling those who live in to rural areas to rely on natural assets we have to be able to survive. So it’s a big plus for the government of Fiji.”

The workshop this week aims to lay the foundation for countries to develop a ‘roadmap’ on how to promote Mitigation Hierarchy.