2015．5　Green Wave in Fiji

 On May 22, proclaimed by the United Nations as the International Day for Biological Diversity, the Green Wave activities in which the Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) has been appealing for worldwide participation, were carried out in five schools in Fiji (Ratu Nemani Memorial school, Ratu Latianara Memorial Primary School, Nawai Public School, Nokonoko District School and Ratu Ilaisa Memrial School). In the respective schools, a large number of pupils and teachers took part and conducted distinctive tree planting programs.

 In all these schools, local species of trees such as mahogany and coconut were chosen and seedlings were planted at schoolyard or areas near the school buildings, places convenient for watering and nurturing after tree planting. At Nawai Public School which has been designated as one of the pilot schools for HPS (Health Promoting Initiatives), fruit-bearing trees which will greatly benefit their health, and also ornamental tree species were planted. Ratu Ilaisa Memorial School has initiated an organic vegetable garden.

Each school is promoting the campaign so as to remind the pupils that protecting the environment is everyone’s responsibility and planting indigenous species is important to preserve the local biodiversity.