National Ocean Policy 2020 – 2030

N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 1 REPUBLIC OF FIJI NATIONAL OCEAN POLICY 2020 - 2030 REPUBLIC OF FIJI NATIONAL OCEAN POLICY 2020 - 2030 © Stuart Chape © Stuart Chape © Pacific Blue Foundation © Stuart Chape © Stuart Chape 2 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 3 REPUBLIC OF FIJI NATIONAL OCEAN POLICY 2020 - 2030 4 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 Table of Contents List of Abbreviations and Acronyms ........................................................................................................................5 Foreword ..................................................................................................................................................................6 Executive Summary ..................................................................................................................................................7 1. Introduction ........................................................................................................................................................10 1.1 Fiji’s Ocean Heritage ...............................................................................................................................10 1.2 The Value of Ocean Resources ...............................................................................................................10 1.3 Ongoing Ocean Management .................................................................................................................12 2. Challenges and Existing Policy Instruments ......................................................................................................14 2.1 International Policies and Commitments .................................................................................................15 2.2 Regional ...................................................................................................................................................16 2.3 National Policy .........................................................................................................................................17 2.4 Progress towards Sustainable Ocean Management ...............................................................................20 3. The National Ocean Policy ................................................................................................................................23 3.1 Vision .......................................................................................................................................................23 3.2 Mission .....................................................................................................................................................23 3.3 Principles .................................................................................................................................................23 3.4 Purpose of the Policy ...............................................................................................................................25 3.5 Scope of the Policy ..................................................................................................................................25 3.6 Goals and Strategies ...............................................................................................................................27 4. Implementation ...................................................................................................................................................43 4.1 Governance Arrangements .....................................................................................................................43 4.2 Strategies .................................................................................................................................................45 5. Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning..................................................................................................................47 5.1 Process and Protocols .............................................................................................................................47 5.2 Implementation Plan ................................................................................................................................47 6.0 Annex ...............................................................................................................................................................68 N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 5 List of Abbreviations and acronyms AWNJ Area Within National Jurisdiction CCICD Climate Change and International Cooperation Division CITES Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora EEZ Exclusive Economic Zone FLMMA Fiji Locally Managed Marine Area IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature GHG Greenhouse gas (emissions) MARPOL International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships MEL Monitoring, evaluation and learning MSG Melanesian Spearhead Group NOPSC National Ocean Policy Steering Committee OECM Other effective area-based conservation measures SAMOA Pathway Small Island Developing States Accelerated Modalities of Action SDG Sustainable Development Goal SIDS Small Island Developing States SOLAS International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea SPREP Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme UN United Nations UNCLOS United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea WCS Wildlife Conservation Society WWF World Wildlife Fund 6 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 Foreword Fijians have been at the forefront of ocean action and leadership because it is our responsibility as an oceanic people. Our very culture, our traditions, values and customs are intimately linked to the marine ecosystems that have sustained us since time immemorial. As a “large ocean state” it is our right and our privilege to be stewards of our exclusive economic zone of approximately 1.3 million square kilometers. As a Pacific island state comprising more than 330 islands, Fiji is highly susceptible to the effects of climate change, primarily stronger and more frequent cyclones and sea-level rise. But Fiji has always placed great value in the sustainable management and use of our ocean, and Fiji’s global leadership in ocean advocacy stems from our strong stewardship and our prioritisation of ocean health domestically and regionally. We were the first country to sign and ratify the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement. The hard work of the Fijian people and Government culminated in Fiji’s Presidency of the 23rd Conference of Parties under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), and we have championed the inclusion of the ocean agenda within the UNFCCC process through initiatives such as the Ocean Pathway Partnership. Defending the health of the vast and multi-faceted global ocean is a challenge that no single agency can hope to undertake on its own, so Fiji’s National Ocean Policy seeks to capture and consolidate the exceptional work being done by various implementing agencies. The Policy brings international best practices to the local level, creating an umbrella that captures the activities of multiple parties within the ocean space under one holistic framework. Our purpose is to secure and sustainably manage all of Fiji’s ocean and marine resources. Fiji will not pursue a short sighted exploitation of ocean ecosystems at the expense of bigger, bluer opportunities of a sustainable ocean economy. With stronger legislation and governance, Pacific Island countries stand to gain substantial financial returns from the blue economy, creating jobs and growth and ensuring a sound economic future—but only if the ocean is sustainably managed. Fiji’s National Ocean Policy points the way to achieving “A healthy ocean that sustains the livelihoods and aspirations of current and future generations for Fiji.” Government is steadily strengthening legislation and policy and committing resources to ensure a healthy and productive ocean. At its core, this Policy lays out Fiji’s commitment to the 100 percent sustainable management of our ocean and its designation of 30 percent marine protected areas by 2030. Fiji may appear as a small green patch on the vast expanse of the blue Pacific Ocean, but our future and our livelihoods rest solely in our hands. We are leading a tide of change, and this policy puts our future in our hands to create sustainable opportunities and bring prosperity and equity to Fijians today and for generations to come. HON. AIYAZ SAYED-KHAIYUM Attorney-General and Minister Responsible for Climate Change Hon. Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 7 Executive Summary Fiji is a nation of over 300 islands whose past, present, and future are intrinsically linked to the ocean. The wealth and resources associated with Fiji’s vast marine areas represent significant natural capital and are vital pillars of the country’s food security. The ocean is also central to traditions, culture, its art, research and education. Various ongoing initiatives administered by state and non-state stakeholders promote the sustainable development and use of the ocean and marine resources at the local, provincial, national and international levels. These range from marine protection programmes, nature-based solutions and sustainable alternatives for ocean resource extraction to quantifying the economic value of the marine space and preserving traditional ocean knowledge. At the international level, Fiji is part of the High Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy (Ocean Panel), which is a unique initiative undertaken by 14 world leaders that is building momentum for a sustainable ocean economy in which effective protection, sustainable production and equitable prosperity go hand in hand. Through the Ocean Panel, Fiji has been advocating on 100 percent management of its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) so it can implement sustainable practices to safeguard and prevent exploitation of Fiji’s resources. Despite these crucial and promising initiatives to protect and preserve the oceanic biosphere. Ocean ecosystems are under several severe stresses, including from: resource extraction, pollution, coastal and land development and climate change impacts, such as ocean warming, high intensity cyclones, heavy rainfall, sea level rise and coral bleaching. Fiji already has a suite of international, regional and national policy instruments as well as legal frameworks that ensure a safe and secure future for the ocean. However, it is recognised that the National Ocean Policy (‘NOP’) and associated arrangements will facilitate the much needed mobilisation and targeting of domestic and international financial and other resources to better provide for sustainable development opportunities. The NOP intends to support, synergise, promote and establish best practice standards for oceans management within the Fijian Government and for all relevant stakeholder groups including community groups, non-government organisaitons and, the private sector.. It will chart a path to the strengthening of sectoral polices and legislations based on identified gaps, lessons learned from national implementation, evolving international good practice, and recent international developments and commitment. The NOP will be able to steer effective stakeholder coordination to address gaps towards the implementation of the Fijian Government’s key ocean related priorities. Preserving traditional canoe construction and sailing. Camakau heat during the annual ‘Veitau Waqa - the boat lives’ event convened at the Suva city foreshore. © Pacific Blue Foundation 8 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 The vision of the NOP is to provide for “a healthy ocean that sustains the livelihoods and aspirations of current and future generations of Fiji.” The mission of the NOP is “to secure and sustainably manage all of Fiji’s ocean and marine resources.” The NOP establishes a National Ocean Policy Steering Committee (NOPSC) with inter-ministerial representation that will oversee the progress of its implementation and deliverables. Subsidiary working groups, with defined tasks and associated protocols, will be established if necessary by the NOPSC. The NOP was developed under the Ministry of Economy’s guidance following extensive consultation with Government agencies, civil society organisations, locally based community groups, ocean experts and individuals. The NOP will be reviewed periodically by the NOPSC to assess lessons learned and updated as needed, including in light of evolutions in economic and ecological conditions, and good practices and updated knowledge. The NOP sets seven interlinked goals: 1. COOPERATION: Harmonise and promote an integrated and cooperative national approach to managing the ocean in a manner that promotes security, strives for sustainability and ensures prosperity for all Fijians. 2. SUSTAINABILITY: Protect, restore, and improve ocean ecosystems, climate services and biodiversity so that these benefits contribute towards fair and equitable participation for current and future generations through the sustainable management of 100 percent of Fiji’s ocean within national jurisdiction. 3. SECURITY: Safeguard assets and ensure regulatory compliance for multidimensional maritime security of 100 percent of Fiji’s ocean within national jurisdiction . 4. PEOPLE: Promote a people-centred approach to ocean management by sharing benefits in an equitable and inclusive manner that respects rights, traditions and culture. 5. DEVELOPMENT: Establish a solid foundation for sustainable development that includes facilitating ocean-based opportunities and innovations to ensure healthy ecosystems and secure economic livelihoods. 6. KNOWLEDGE: Integrate traditional knowledge, heritage, and cultural practices with scientific knowledge, to provide a holistic platform that can meet the contemporary challenges of the ocean. 7. ADVOCACY: Recognizing the connectivity of oceans, and the need for ambitious ocean management , and deepened understanding of the ocean-climate nexus, the NOP lays out how Fiji can engage in regional and global advocacy that aligns with and fortifies ongoing national endeavours. N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 9 These reefs support substantial marine and coastal biodiversity, including more than 1,200 fish species, nearly 800 different species of molluscs, and about 350 hard coral species. Vibrant and healthy corals on the Beqa Lagoon barrier reef. © Pacific Blue Foundation 10 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 1. Introduction 1.1 Fiji’s Ocean Heritage Although Fiji is globally defined as a Small Island Developing State (SIDS), Fiji considers itself to be a “large ocean state”. Fiji’s 1,290,000 km2 EEZ is nearly 70 times larger than its landmass, which consists of an archipelago of over 300 islands. For nearly 4,000 years, Fijians have relied on coastal and marine resources for their livelihoods. They transverse great vast distances between Fiji’s islands in traditional sailing canoes, named Druas, which were built by skilled boat builders and steered by experienced navigators. These Druas helped lay the foundation for Fiji’s unique and diverse cultural heritage, as did the legends and ceremonies associated with key marine species such as sperm whales, turtles, sharks, rays and seabirds. Under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), Fiji and other Pacific island countries and territories gained rights over and management responsibilities nearly 30 million km2 of the Pacific Ocean. The Marine Spaces Act 1977 defines Fiji’s internal waters, archipelagic waters, territorial seas, and EEZ. This Act establishes that Fiji’s sovereignty extends beyond its land territory and internal waters to include Fiji’s archipelagic waters, territorial seas and to the airspace above as well as to the seabed and subsoil thereunder. Fiji is pursuing negotiation of its maritime boundaries to include a review and verification of the revised archipelagic baselines, in accordance with UNCLOS. The NOP defines “the ocean” as all the marine area within national jurisdiction, which includes internal waters, archipelagic waters, territorial seas, and the EEZ. Fiji has a productive forest ecosystem and watersheds, beaches, coastal mangroves and seagrass areas and more than 10,000 km2 of coral reefs. These reef systems include the third and fourth largest barrier reefs in the world, in total accounting for nine percent of the coral reefs in the Pacific. These reefs support substantial marine and coastal biodiversity, including more than 1,200 fish species, nearly 800 different species of mollusks, and about 350 hard coral species. The reef systems have enabled subsistence and artisanal fishing to thrive and have helped to shape Fiji’s communal life and cultural practices. However, these reefs and the biodiversity and local communities they’ve supported are under growing pressures, including sediment run-off from land, pollution, and climate change impacts such as coral bleaching, deoxygenation and ocean acidification. More recently, additional potential developments in the ocean are evident in the Pacific region. For example, deep sea minerals are being explored in the Pacific region and extraction of minerals and building materials is expanding in coastal areas. The sustainable development of the ocean requires robust governance and management regime that strikes an important balance between economic development and ocean preservation. Fiji has had a long history of marine resource management that have humble beginnings dating back to our age-old culture of temporarily closing off fishing areas following the death of a High Chief. This led to the establishment of the globally recognised Fiji Locally Managed Marine Area (FLMMA) Network which has since then adopted and employed this traditional tool of management and merged it with science and research to adapt and formalize it into more than 460 traditionally managed inshore areas. The FLMMA Network recognises that this community-based power tool is based on people’s traditional rights to set the rules and uses of coastal areas (iqoliqoli). Fiji, centrally located in the Pacific Ocean that covers nearly one-third of the earth’s surface, is at the hub of one of nature’s greatest carbon sinks and is ideally situated to play an important role in sustainable development. All Fijian communities, are stewards and caretakers of their ocean resources and are increasingly of one “blue mind” regarding sustainable ocean management. 1.2 The Value of Ocean Resources The Pacific Ocean is central to Fijian culture, and its economy and social well-being, noting its value goes beyond monetary terms. Consistent with its commitments under the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), Fiji is working to account for the complete social, economic, and environmental benefits of its ocean. The Department of Environment leads the efforts towards fulfilling Fiji’s biodiversity targets and international commitments (including protocols and obligations). Attempts have been made to estimate the monetary value of marine ecosystem services by using the total value of Fiji’s exports. However, this metric fails to account for the multitude of domestic benefits, including support for the Fijian way of life in our fishing communities and the maintenance of subsistence livelihoods. Specific ocean-related activities however, have been valued. For example, shark-diving was estimated to contribute US $42.2 million to the Fijian economy (estimated N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 11 Overview of Fiji and its vast EEZ. Adopted from the MACBIO - Marine and Coastal Biodiversity Management in Pacific Island Countries © The Marine Atlas for Fiji. 12 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 in 20111). A 2015 Marine Ecosystem Service Valuation report2 evaluated marine and coastal ecosystem services in Fiji. The report looked at such ecosystem services as: subsistence food provision, commercial food harvesting, mineral and aggregate mining, tourism, coastal protection, carbon sequestration, and research and education. In 2014, the estimated value of Fiji’s marine ecosystem services was about FJD 2.4 billion (US$ 1.2 billion) annually. Fisheries was estimated to contribute about FJ$ 123 million annually mainly from subsistence farming. Small-scale inshore commercial fisheries produced a total national value of up to FJ$ 54 million (US$ 27 million), while the commercial offshore fisheries, primarily based on albacore tuna produced a total net value of FJ$ 20 (US$ 10) million per year. Identifying the economic value of marine and coastal ecosystems and considering them in national planning processes assists government to create incentives for more effective protection and sustainable use of living marine resources. This, in turn, helps to sustain the benefits that people derive from marine and coastal ecosystems. 1.3 Ongoing Ocean Mananagement Efforts Considerable action to ensure Fiji’s marine resources contribute to sustainable development is already underway. The NOP draws on extensive analytical work and actions that have taken place since 2017. The Marine Affairs Coordinating Committee (MACC), mandated by a Cabinet decision, oversees work of the Fijian Government regarding oceans, especially UNCLOS related activities. The Environment Management Act (2005) under the responsibility of the Department of Environment applies the principles of sustainable use and development of natural resources and extends to the outer limits of the national jurisdiction of the ocean. The Offshore Management Decree (2012) under the responsibility of the Ministry of Fisheries provides for the management, development and sustainable use of fisheries and living resources of the ocean. A multi stakeholder Protected Areas Committee reports to the National Environment Council established under the Environment Management Act 2005. Many initiatives at the local, provincial, as well as national levels and efforts within the broader Pacific region and in the international arena that, have led to concrete gains for Fiji in the ocean space. Initiatives include, but are not limited to: I. The Marine Atlas for Fiji compiled over 100 datasets from a range of data providers and for the first time makes this marine and coastal information accessible and usable (Marine and Coastal Biodiversity Management in Pacific Island Countries (MACBIO); IUCN). II. A Maritime Economy Plan that enables further sustainable development of Fiji’s ocean resources (Commonwealth Marine Economies Programme, UK Government). III. The Fiji Protected Area Committee, supported by IUCN, WCS, and WWF, is undertaking studies on the costs of running a national Marine Protected Area (MPA) network and potential sustainable financing mechanisms. IV. Mapping of the entire vertical and multi-level governance structures has allowed Fiji to determine where effective coastal management bottlenecks exist and understand how to assist stakeholders in addressing them (Marine and Coastal Biodiversity Management in Pacific Island Countries; IUCN). V. A national Ecosystem and Socio-economic and Resilience Analysis and Mapping provided options for ecosystem based adaptation in Taveuni (Pacific Ecosystem-based Adaptation to Climate Change Project). VI. Scoping and broadly estimating the potential costs to Fiji associated with Deep Sea-bed Mining allows Fiji to assess those costs with reasonable confidence (Counting the potential cost of Deep Sea-bed mining to Fiji, WWF). VII. Transforming the seafood supply sector through working with a range of partners along the seafood supply chain builds a firmer foundation for sustainable fisheries (WWF). VIII. Focused studies on key fisheries such as the sea cucumbers, using value chain analysis and advances in science for management have supported further control by the Government (WCS). IX. Management efforts working with 466 LMMA communities in 14 provinces across Fiji over the last 20 years have led to the sharing of lessons learnt and best practices at a national and regional level. Community-based adaptive management integrates culture and traditions and strengthens traditional governance to empower communities to take ownership of the management of their resources for current and future generations. (FLMMA Network). X. The conservation tools that have been applied for areas such as the Vatu-i-Ra, Great Sea Reef and Lau Seascape take into account economic, environmental and societal factors, (Conservation International) XI. Transdisciplinary approaches are used to predict, harness and equitably share environmental, socioeconomic and cultural benefits from ocean conservation and sustainable use (One Ocean Hub, The University of the South Pacific, UK Government). 1 GMS Vianna, JJ Meeuwig , D Pannell, H Sykes and MG Meekan (2011) The socio-economic value of the Shark-diving industry in Fiji. Australian Institute of Marine Science. University of Western Australia. Perth (26pp) 2 http://macbio-pacific.info/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Fiji-MESV-Digital-LowRes.pdf http://macbio-pacific.info/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Fiji-MESV-Digital-LowRes.pdf N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 13 Fiji was instrumental in the 1970s using the multilateral space to design an international legal framework to govern the ocean space. This paved the way for the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Great Sea Reef, Vanua Levu © Stuart Chape 14 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 2. Challenges And Existing Policy Instruments Fiji’s ocean and marine resources face major threats including but not limited to climate change, biodiversity loss, land and sea-based pollution, habitat destruction, and overfishing. Fiji continues to face challenges in the sustainable management of its marine and coastal ecosystems. Stakeholder meetings and independent assessments have highlighted a broad range of threats, including: 1. Land development: Prime coastal land traditionally used for agriculture has increasingly faced demand from housing, tourism and infrastructure development sectors, pushing agricultural production onto marginal lands which require chemical fertilizer, pesticides and other inputs and increase soil erosion. Improved planning, coordination and implementation of urban and coastal development and other land use practices are required. Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) will be used as one of the key tools to address this issue. 2. Resource extraction: Unsustainable and destructive extraction and harvesting practices in coastal areas are leading to biodiversity loss and habitat destruction. There is a need for enhanced “ridge-to-reef” approaches, watershed management, increased coastal/marine resources restoration and compliance with EIA approval conditions and other relevant operational tools. 3. Waste management: Addressing poor waste management practices is a challenge, as a great amount of waste tends to end up in the ocean. Improved coordination and awareness will be required to change human/industry behaviour. Enforcement and compliance with relevant laws including the Environment Management Act 2005 and Litter Act 2008 will be required. 4. Climate change impacts: Based on the current global projections, climate change impacts will become increasingly significant3. Ensuring our oceans are more resilient and continuing to advocate to the global community the urgent need to reduce emissions and keep warming below 1.5°C will be critical. 5. Territorial integrity and security: Immediate threats to our oceans include: natural events including earthquakes and cyclones, national security, poaching of marine resources, human rights abuses including refoulement, transnational environmental crimes (including wildlife trafficking, disposal of hazardous substances, drug smuggling, invasive species and international crime. Improved public sector coordination and surveillance required to address some of these threats. 3 https://www.ipcc.ch/srocc/ Fiji launched the Ocean Pathway Partnership in 2017 to integrate oceans within the climate change agenda of the UNFCCC, during the first United Nations Ocean Conference as the co-chair with Sweden. https://www.ipcc.ch/srocc/ N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 15 2.1 International Policies and Commitments Fiji has a legacy as an important global actor when it comes to ocean governance. For example, Fiji was instrumental in the 1970s in using the multilateral space to design an international legal framework to govern its ocean space. In recognition of Fiji’s trailblazing work, Fiji was given the honour to become the 1st country to ratify the UNCLOS Treaty. Fiji is also a party to a number of other international instruments related to the ocean4. Fiji continues to actively participate in the various multilateral ocean platforms championing the interests of SIDS and large ocean states. The Aichi Target 11 and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target 14.5 aimed to protect at least 10 percent of coastal and marine areas by 2020. The UK is advocating for increasing this target to 30 percent by 2030 which Fiji has endorsed formally through a Cabinet process. The Sustainable Development Goals are a collection of 17 interlinked global goals designed to be a “blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all”. The SDGs were set in 2015 by the United Nations General Assembly and are intended to be achieved by the year 2030. The 17 SDGs with their 169 associated targets are integrated and indivisible in nature. Fiji and other Pacific island countries were amongst the strongest advocates for a dedicated SDG14 on oceans. The realization of SDG14 targets will contribute to the effective implementation of other SDGs. The NOP builds on these initiatives, which are aligned to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and recognises the linkages between SDG14 and other SDGs. In particular, it recognises the role of women and the importance of SDG5 (gender equality) and the link SDG13 (climate action). The NOP also recognises the vital role of the private sector, including small and medium-sized enterprises, and public-private partnerships in developing ocean opportunities that lead to beneficial outcomes. The ocean, its coastal regions and the economic activities they support can be a source of inspiration and innovation for multilateral efforts to reduce global warming and respond to the impacts of climate change. In this regard, Fiji plans to communicate its updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change Secretariat. Fiji’s updated NDC recognises the country’s ocean resources as an important carbon sink, a platform for carbon markets, and a critical component of nature-based solutions for greater climate adaptation efforts. This commitment is intrinsic to restore the health of Fiji’s ocean space and enhance its capacity as a buffer to climate change, through enhanced 4 Including but not limited to, implementation of Part XI of UNCLOS, Agreement for the Implementation of the Provisions of UNCLOS relating to the Conservation and Management of Straddling Fish Stocks and Highly Migratory Fish Stocks, International Maritime Organization’s International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL), Convention on Biological Diversity, United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement, United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, International Labour Organization Convention, United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and National Heritage, Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild fauna and Flora (CITES), Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants, Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer and its Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, , Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals and The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. 16 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 food security. Such commitments are expected to catalyse the following ocean-climate action: 1. Protecting, sustainably managing, and restoring coastal “blue carbon” ecosystems and accounting for their sequestration and storage capacity in national GHG inventories. 2. Reducing GHG emissions from oceanic and coastal fisheries. 3. Reducing GHG emissions from marine transport. 4. Increasing well-sited, environmentally responsible ocean-based renewable energy. 5. Fostering ecosystem-based resilience through coastal and marine ecosystems. 6. Addressing ocean acidification. 7. Building resilient fisheries sector. 2.2 Regional Policies, Strategies and Commitments International commitments on oceans are reinforced at the regional level, where existing regional agencies and organizations support national governments in the implementation, monitoring and reporting of activities. The people of the Pacific share common traditional links to the sea that are critical to their survival and provide a sense of place, pride and respect, spirituality, mental health, security and nourishment. The Pacific Islands Regional Ocean Policy (2002) provides the framework for an integrated strategic action on the ocean. This policy was subsequently reinvigorated under the Framework for a Pacific Oceanscape in 2010. The Pacific is the only region that has an integrated ocean management framework. The Framework establishes strategic priorities to measure sustainable management and proposes transformative approaches and mechanisms for integrated ocean management. The six strategic priorities are listed below: 1. Good Ocean Governance 2. Sustainable Development Management and Conservation 3. Sustaining Action 4. Listening, Learning, Liaising and Leading 5. Adapting to a Rapidly Changing Environment 6. Jurisdictional Rights and Responsibilities N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 17 The Framework established the Pacific Ocean Alliance, which includes a Pacific Ocean Commissioner and regional Ocean office to facilitate actions. In 2017, the Pacific Islands Forum approved the Blue Pacific narrative which aims to work towards recapturing the collective potential of shared stewardship of the Pacific Ocean5. Sustainable fisheries are a common priority for all Pacific Island countries and Fiji is committed to the various fisheries related processes, including under the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission and regional commitments such as the ‘Regional Roadmap for Sustainable Pacific Fisheries,’ which covers tuna and coastal fisheries and is endorsed by members of the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency. The “Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Roadmap for Inshore Fisheries Management and Sustainable Development 2015-2024” was led by the Honourable Prime Minister of Fiji and his counterparts from his MSG counterparts. All these instruments commit to ecosystem and integrated resource management approaches for sustainable fisheries management. 2.3 National Policy At the national level, there is a diverse range of ocean-related policy actions are dispersed across various ministries and agencies. While these policy actions provide guidance to the country’s development objectives in this space regarding oceans; no single policy provides an overview of or framework for the ocean space. An extensive list of policies, legislations, action plans and frameworks is provided as a guideline below: • National Development Plan 2017-2036 • Green Growth Framework for Fiji 2014 • National Biodiversity Strategic Action Plan 2020 - 2025 • Fiji Forest Policy Statement 2007 • Fijian Trade Policy Framework 2015-2025 • Rural Land Use Policy for Fiji 2002 • Integrated Coastal Zone Management Framework 2011 • Clean Environment Policy 2019 • Fiji 2020 Agriculture Sector Policy 5 https://www.forumsec.org/pacific-regionalism/ Industry workers from the Pacific Fishing Company Pte Limited (PAFCO) processing modern cannery of Tuna in the old capital Levuka on the island of Ovalau in Fiji. https://www.forumsec.org/pacific-regionalism/ 18 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 • National Climate Change Policy 2018 – 2030 • Integrated Rural Development Framework • National Liquid Trade Waste Policy 2017 • Fiji Offshore Mineral Policy 1999 • Rural Water and Sanitation Policy 2012 • Maritime Transport Policy 2015 • Fijian Tourism 2021 • National Security Strategy • National Gender Policy • iTaukei Affairs Strategic Development Plan 2018-2023 • Banaban Lands Act 1965 • Banaban Settlement Act 1970 • Biosecurity Act 2008 • Bird and Game Protection Act 1923 • Constitution of the Republic of Fiji • Continental Shelf Act 170 • Climate Relocation of Communities Trust Fund Act 2019 • Endangered and Protected Species Act 2002 • Environment Management Act 2005 • Fair Share of Minerals Royalties Act 2018 • Fisheries Act 1941 • Forest Act 1992 • International Seabed Mineral Management Act 2013 • Irrigation Act 1973 • iTaukei Land Trust Act 1940 • iTaukei Lands Act 1905 • Land Development Act 1961 • Land Use Act 2010 • Litter Act 2008 • Local Government Act 1972 • Marine Spaces Act 1977 • Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji Act 2009 • Maritime Transport Act 2013 • Mining Act 1965 • National Research Council Act 2017 • Offshore Fisheries Management Act 2012 • Ozone Depleting Substances Act 1998 • Pesticides Act 1971 • Petroleum (Exploration and Exploitation) Act 1978 • Public Health Act 1935 • Quarries Act 1939 • Regulation of Surfing Areas Act 2010 • Rivers and Streams Act 1880 • Rotuma Act 1914 • Rotuma Lands Act 1959 • Sea Ports Management Act 2005 • State Lands Act 1945 • Ship Registration Act 2013 N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 19 Fiji’s 5-year and 20-year National Development Plan 2017-2036 (NDP) completed in 2017, provides a clear path towards sustainable development for Fiji, focusing on inclusive socio-economic development and a suite of transformational strategic timelines. To assess the degree to which existing ocean-related policies further coordinate NDP priorities, a structured analysis of words and phrases used in the policies was carried out6. The analysis compared policy-related terms used in the NDP with recent ocean-related national policy instruments produced since the NDP, with the addition of the Integrated Coastal Management Framework of 2011 to ensure coverage of inshore areas. The textual analysis revealed that the focus of the NDP was “development” and “economy-society”, based on the high scores. The strongest linkages with the NDP were from the Pacific Blue Shipping Partnership (PBSP), the 2011 Integrated Coastal Management Framework (ICMF) and the National Climate Change Policy (NCCP). Other ocean-related policies were linked weakly to moderately to the NDP, including the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and the Fisheries Strategic Plan (FSP). Additionally, although most ocean-related policies were linked to each other, the potential for strengthening these linkages does exist. The following figure illustrates these policy interconnections: Connections between Fiji’s NDP and selected ocean-related policies (thicker lines depict stronger linkages between policies). Policy codes: NDP PBSP ICMF NCCP LEDS NAP FSP National Development Plan (2017) Pacific Blue Shipping Partnership (2019) Integrated Coastal Management Framework (2011) National Climate Change Policy (2018) Low Emission Development Strategy (2018) National Adaptation Plan (2018) Fisheries Strategic Plan (2019) This analysis illustrates that there is stronger mainstreaming the NDP into ocean-related policies and between the ocean related policies themselves is still possible. This is the exact role and task that the NOP aims to take on by strengthening the interface between national policy priorities and the various sectors related directly or indirectly to the ocean. The NOP seeks to strengthen this interface and create more aligned and interlinked policies. Furthermore, the NOP will support the transposition of the NDP’s core development and inclusive growth aspirations into the ocean arena. Consequently, the NOP outlines further coordination and collaboration across the sectors relevant to ocean management to strengthen linkages and align them to sustainable national development. 6 This lexicometric analysis was carried out under the Global Challenges Research Fund - One Ocean Hub, by Pierre Mazzega (CNRS, University Jean Jaurès, France), Claire Lajaunie (INSERM, University Aix-Marseille, France), Jeremy Hills (USP) & Payal Maharaj (USP). NAP NCCP PBSP NDP ICMF LEDS FSP 20 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 2.4 Progress towards Sustainable Ocean Management While Fiji’s close relationship to its environment has allowed for a unique resilience. However, this quality is under pressure from changing lifestyle patterns. Fijians are exploring a type of sustainable development that integrates their customary and contemporary resource management arrangements in a way that improves their livelihoods and wellbeing while ensuring a vibrant environment capable of continually supporting life. Fiji has set out actions to mitigate national emissions, including in its NDC, Low Emission Development Strategy (LEDS), and NCCP. Fiji intends to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 across all economic sectors of including domestic and regional shipping.7 However, all countries must undertake similar far-reaching actions to reduce GHG emissions and mitigate their profound impacts on oceans. Rapid global emission reduction of GHG is vital for the long-term sustainability of the ocean and the services it provides. Otherwise, climate change will continue to have substantial negative impacts on the ocean system far into the future. For example, increased atmospheric emission levels leading to increased absorption of carbon dioxide in seawater will cause increased ocean acidification. The role of marine ecosystems in sequestering and storing carbon dioxide (known as “blue carbon”) to reduce climate change is fully recognised. Moreover, the effect of marine habitat loss and degradation from carbon sequestration further sharpens the imperative to ensure a healthy ocean. The NOP is fully aligned to other national polices already set out a path for rapid decarbonisation. The Fijian Government, in partnership with the civil society, has undertaken concrete actions over the last decade and across a range of sectors to foster conservation and sustainable use of marine resources. A number of national voluntary commitments to support implementation of SDG14 were submitted at the 2017 UN Ocean Conference including reducing plastic pollution, conservation of sharks and rays, and promoting gender equality in sustainable fisheries management. The following examples outline some of the additional contributions by a range of sectors that are taking an active role towards shaping Fiji’s sustainable future: Climate change adaptation and low carbon development: • The NCCP aims towards a resilient and prosperous Fiji, in which wellbeing of current and future generations is supported and protected by a socially inclusive, equitable and environmentally sustainable net-zero emissions economy. • The NAP, which sets out a pathway towards climate resilience, provides a clear vision for adaptation and identifies priorities to address in partnership with academic institutions, development partners, and private sector entities. • The Green Growth Framework for Fiji aims to accelerate an integrated approach to sustainable development. This was based on a robust consultative process, with particular emphasis on its environment pillar. Environment: • The Environment Management Act 2005 and established environment units within Government ministries including establishment of the National Environment Council. • The Fiji National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2020-2025 was revised and updated, strengthening the focus on the ocean through six focal areas including: Improving Knowledge, Developing Protected Areas, Species Management, Management of Invasive Species, Enabling Environment and Mainstreaming, and Sustainable Use and Development. • The Environment Management Act 2005 (Budget Amendment 2019) which bans the manufacture, sale, supply and distribution of single-use plastic bags. • The Environment Management Act 2005 (Budget Amendment 2020) which bans the manufacture, sale, supply and distribution of polystyrene products. 7 Pacific Island Blue Shipping Partnership, a coalition of seven Pacific island countries committed to reducing fossil fuel use by domestic and regional shipping. N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 21 Fisheries: • The management of inshore areas (customary fishing grounds) has rapidly expanded, and as of 2014, nearly 80 percent of Fiji’s inshore areas are under some form of management. The inshore areas hold the greatest species and habitat diversity, and are critical to the health, wealth, food security, and wellbeing of the Fijian people. • The Offshore Fisheries Management Act 2012 aims to conserve, manage and develop Fiji’s offshore fisheries for the equitable benefit of present and future Fijian generations through the offshore Fisheries Advisory Council. The Council includes representatives from the fishing industry, non-governmental organisations, and Government representatives. • The Strategic Development Plan for Fisheries (2019 – 2029) produced by the Ministry of Fisheries outlines key development strategies and priority areas with a focus on strengthening resilience while ensuring positive ecological, economic and wellbeing outcomes for the long-term benefit of Fijians. 22 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 Inclusivity and recognition of the link that traditions and cultures hold for all Fijians are critical in the management of our ocean. N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 23 3. The National Ocean Policy Fiji is fully committed to the integrated management of its ocean and marine resources. The NOP provides a holistic framework for integrated action and partnerships on all of Fiji’s national, regional and global ocean-related commitments. It recognises and aligns itself to ongoing approaches in various ocean management sectors , and provides overarching support and integration across these sectors. The NOP frames a progression to the integrated management of Fiji’s entire ocean (the Area Within National Jurisdiction, AWNJ) by 2030, to ensure the resilience and sustainability of marine ecosystems while maximising opportunities for socio-economic benefits. The NOP’s sustainability target extends to its maritime boundaries regardless of climate change and sea level rise. The role of the NOP is to set-out a comprehensive and cohesive pathway to a sustainable ocean. It seeks to do this by supporting current initiatives, identifying and implementing more effective practices such as legislative and institutional arrangements, and multi-sectorial challenges for future initiatives; and promoting synergies among the Government and non-government sectors involved in the common future of the ocean. 3.1 Vision A healthy ocean that sustains the livelihoods and aspirations of Fiji’s current and future generations. 3.2 Mission To secure and sustainably manage Fiji’s ocean and its marine resources. 3.3 Principles Fiji’s approach to integrated ocean management will be guided by the following overarching principles: 1. Stewardship and meaningful public participation: The knowledge and skills, perspectives, and needs of ocean stakeholders will be included fairly in decision-making processes. In particular, women, people living with disabilities, youth and all Fijians whose lives depend on a healthy ocean will be key participants in decision making processes. 2. Sound science and evidence-based decision-making: Decision making will use the best available data, research, and analysis. Best available refers to the most accurate and up-to-date data available to decision makers in Fiji. Relevant information will range from traditional and women’s community knowledge to modern or innovative mapping technologies. 3. Ecosystem and integrated resource management approaches: A holistic approach of interlinked ecological, economic, social, cultural, and other needs in our region will be considered, with an emphasis of progressing to ecosystem-based management. A strong human rights and gender-responsive lens should be applied to all decision-making processes, including through the meaningful and informed engagement of stakeholders and in relation to the universal right to a healthy environment. 4. Transparent, accountable and integrated government decision-making: Coordination among government agencies will be based on a common vision, common information sources, and clear decision-making processes with meaningful, informed and participative input from a range of stakeholders. 5. Adaptive and precautionary management: Decisions will be updated as we learn more about patterns and impacts of ocean uses, particularly as environmental, social, and economic conditions change. The precautionary principle suggests that the absence of scientific certainty should not prevent taking action if a decision could potentially prevent severe or irreversible harm to society or the environment. 6. Fair and equitable participation and sharing of benefits for current and future generations: Resource owners and other stakeholders will engage to determine the amount of benefits from natural resources, and conservation levels to ensure intergenerational equity. Youths will be included as decision makers, workers and users in all areas of the NOP. 24 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 7. Respect for traditional culture and heritage of the ocean: Inclusivity and recognition of the link that traditions and cultures hold for all Fijians are critical in the management of our ocean. We are accountable to our future generations and must ensure all factors are considered and marry this culture and heritage with science, research and development to ensure that we adopt a healthy ocean. 8. Gender equality and equity is fundamental to any development: Recognizing the vital role of women in small-scale fisheries and other ocean-related activities, equal rights and opportunities will be promoted. 9. Decent work in the ocean: Basic standards of decent work in the fishing industry and other ocean-related activities will be promoted including the International Labour Organisation’s “Work in Fishing Convention”,2007(No.188). This convention includes occupational safety and health and medical care at sea and ashore, rest periods, written work agreements, and social security protection. 10. Accountability, transparency and public trust: Processes used to make decisions should be accessible and easily understood by the public, allow citizens to see how decisions are made, and ensure responsibilities are clear regarding allocation and use of Fiji’s resources. The implications of decisions and the process used to make those decisions should be communicated to the broader public to ensure clarity and responsibility for the use and allocation of Fiji’s marine resources. 11. Availability of access to conflict management and mediation: There may be a need for conflict management and mediation in the peaceful settlement of disputes, conflict prevention and resolution8. An annual Talanoa Dialogue and process initiated by the NOP Secretariat for conflict management and mediation would facilitate progress of the NOP. 12. Transboundary harm: All sovereign governments and entities are also accountable for social, economic and environmental violations and damage outside their own territories because of an act or omission, including any negative effects of action taken by foreign governments and corporations on Fiji’s oceanic system. 8 United Nations General Assembly, Resolution 65/2833. https://undocs.org/en/A/RES/65/283 Vibrant and healthy coral reef blooming in Fijian waters. © G Tenna Girard https://undocs.org/en/A/RES/65/283 N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 25 3.4 Purpose of the Policy The NOP establishes the process and principles to encourage coordination across sectors, to facilitate collaboration among stakeholders and ultimately maintain a healthy ocean through ecosystem based management approaches. The NOP aims to: 1. Provide high level leadership that recognises and prioritises the importance of integrated management of ocean and associated resources as a foundation for sustainable development; 2. Establish and ensure high level coordination to improve joint planning and collaborative management of our ocean and coastal resources; 3. Ensure participation in planning and stewardship of all relevant stakeholders as well as fair and equitable benefits from ocean resources for all Fijians; and 4. Fulfil Fiji’s existing national and international ocean and coastal resource management commitments and provide leadership in addressing global challenges facing our ocean. 3.5 Scope of the Policy As a large ocean state, Fiji depends on marine resources that flow naturally across national borders and depend on the responsible coordination of multiple stakeholders. Thus, this framework encompasses the following: Geographic range: This policy covers all of the AWNJ. Fiji is an archipelagic state under UNCLOS, and the AWNJ includes internal waters, territorial waters, archipelagic waters and the EEZ. The AWNJ is, however not treated in isolation and includes land, rivers and watersheds from “ridge-to-reef” as well as Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (ABNJ, or commonly called the “high seas”) to the extent that activities therein impact Fiji’s AWNJ. The future generation of sailors. A competitor in the Bakanawa (toy canoe) heat, during the annual ‘Veitau Waqa - the boat lives’ event convened at the Suva city foreshore. © Pacific Blue Foundation 26 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 Ecological connections: The wide variety of interlinked habitats including, but is not limited to mangroves, sand dunes, shores, seagrasses, coral reefs, seamounts, seafloor and the vast ocean waters, and land systems such as waterways, farmland or forests that are linked to the sea. These connections are the basis for integrated coastal management, ridge to reef and ecosystem based management approaches. Multiple uses: Linkages between current and future uses of ocean resources, which underpin much of Fiji’s traditional culture, food security, economic activity, and transportation network. Diverse and traditional knowledge and skills: Fiji’s rich and diverse cultural heritage includes ancestral ecological knowledge and governance approaches, such as ‘stewardship’ and traditional tenure. Diverse and traditional knowledge and skills: The rich and diverse cultural heritage of Fiji includes ancestral ecological knowledge and governance approaches, such as ‘stewardship’ and traditional tenure. Intersectional approach: All Fijians should be included including women and girls, persons with disabilities, young people and the elderly, people living in urban poor communities, rural and remote areas, and other marginalised and vulnerable groups. Climate change, and associated impacts such as such as ocean warming, high intensity cyclones, heavy rainfall, sea level rise, coral bleaching and ocean acidification: The impacts of climate change present a major threat to Fiji’s ocean and a topic in which additional research is needed to identify which interventions provide the most promising solutions. Marine ecologist, Sefano Katz, in a close encounter with a Tiger Shark; conducting a behavioural ecology study of sharks in an eco tourism shark diving site operated by Beqa Lagoon Resort in Fiji. © Pacific Blue Foundation N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 27 3.6 Goals and Strategies The NOP is based on seven integrated goals which is presented as follows: COOPERATION SUSTAINA BILITY SECURITY PEOPLE DEVELOPMENT KNOWLEDGE ADVOCACY 28 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 Goal 1 - COOPERATION Improved integrated governance of the ocean can create enhanced opportunities for Fijians, who will be able to more effectively manage the ocean and its resources and promote ocean health... N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 29 Goal 1 - COOPERATION: Harmonise and promote an integrated and cooperative approach to managing the ocean in a manner that promotes security, strives for sustainability and ensures prosperity for all Fijians. A prime purpose of the NOP is to further coordinate all sectors including economic and social actors involved in the ocean space, with the aim of ensuring development of the ocean and its resources is done so within a sustainable development framework . Improved integrated governance of the ocean can create enhanced opportunities for Fijians, who will be able to more effectively manage the ocean and its resources and promote ocean health by embedding key principles such as the precautionary principle and ecosystem-based approaches. Improved coordination can also identify areas where there are challenges and effectively target further resource mobilisation. To achieve these outcomes a government committee driving this policy will be supported by subsidiary bodies focussing on different aspects of the overall NOP. A Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) process with key indicators of progress shall be developed and implemented and a publicly available Annual Progress Report will be produced. This is Fiji’s NOP and to ensure validity going forward the NOP will be reviewed after five years and a Review Report made publicly available. STRATEGIES: 1.1 Develop the NOP governance framework, including a National Ocean Policy Steering Committee (NOPSC) and subsidiary working groups, with defined remits and associated agreed protocols and defined meeting schedule. 1.2 Develop, adopt and implement a MEL Plan, from activity to mission level, with verifiable indicators, which reports annually to the NOPSC. 1.3 Undertake mapping and analyses of the policies, laws and institutional arrangements to identify the existing information and gaps to inform cross-sector policy reform and strengthen decision-making. 1.4 Identify new mechanisms to strengthen institutional alignment and employ additional resources and tools to promote coordination within Government including different levels of Government, and between Government and non-government stakeholders including in resource mobilisation approaches. 1.5 IImplement an annual Conflict Resolution and Mediation Ocean Talanoa (CRMOT). 1.6 The NOPSC will undertake a review informed by the MEL, and revise, the NOP at least every five years. 30 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 Goal 2 - Sustainability Functional, productive and diverse ecosystems can provide perpetual natural bounty, as well as being intrinsic to the culture, traditions and activities of all Fijians. © Sangeeta Mangubhai, WCS N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 31 Goal 2 - SUSTAINABILITY: Protect, restore, and improve ocean ecosystems, and enhance climate resilience and biodiversity so benefits can be equitably shared through the sustainable management of 100 percent of Fiji’s ocean within national jurisdiction. The NOP recognises that the ocean provides many services and benefits to Fiji. However, these are under threat from anthropogenic activities. Central to the integrated approach embedded in the NOP is the need to define the full array of services and benefits and understand how the flow of benefits can be enhanced for current and future generations. Functional, productive and diverse ecosystems can provide perpetual natural bounty, and are intrinsic to the culture, traditions and activities of all Fijians. This goal recognises that sectoral approaches to the ocean can be strengthened. This includes improved management of land-based and coastal activities that could put stress on the ocean or contribute to ocean pollution. This includes water-borne pollution (e.g. sewage), leaching of synthetic chemicals and harmful pollutants, plastic product pollution and, sediment flowing from rivers (e.g. catchment modification). Through rigorous application of the ridge-to-reef approaches and instruments such as EIA and reviewing a phase out of such chemicals, these stressors and pollutants will be appropriately and holistically addressed. In addition, this goal recognises that diverse and productive ecosystems are vital to maintaining rates of sequestration of carbon in the marine environment which help build climate resilience through carbon sinks and reservoirs. Thus, the strategies under this goal directly contribute to mitigation efforts through carbon sequestration in coastal and oceanic environments as outlined in the LEDS and identified in Fiji’s NDC, particularly on the policy interlinkage and conservation of carbon sinks and ecosystems. By 2030, 100 percent of the ocean under national jurisdiction will be under sustainable management through a combination of controls on activities and controls on delimited ocean areas. At least 30 percent of the AWNJ will be designated as MPA’s by 20309. An interim 5 percent target of the AWNJ designated as MPAs by 2023, and 10 percent MPAs by 2025, will be applied to pilot the process, including but not limited to site selection processes, legal steps, and establishing and ensuring compliance arrangements. The MPA network will contribute to multiple objectives, including its role as a climate-smart buffer, improved food security, sustainable livelihoods, restoring ecosystem health and productivity, building resilience to climate change and disaster, food and nutritional security, restoring and conserving biological diversity and ecosystem services, and minimising conflict between users. Climate-smart MPA’s will take into account the unique genetic distribution of marine species and their adaptive capacity and, connectivity with ecosystems and their fundamental roles, and will explore options to enhance these environments to offer resilience to marine species and factor for migratory species that are vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Other instruments, including area-based management tools and nature based solutions may be used to secure biological diversity and ecosystem services, including “other effective area based conservation measures” (OECMs)10. These tools may be used, in addition to the 30 percent designation of the AWNJ as MPA’s, to further strengthen the network of protected ecosystems. In addition, monitoring, compliance and surveillance regulations and controls will be used to ensure equitable sharing of these resources. STRATEGIES: 2.1 Define and build awareness about the range of ecosystem and climate services provided by healthy, fully functioning marine ecosystems and biodiversity and the associated economic and non-economic benefits. 2.2 Revitalise and strengthen existing sectoral policies and processes, or establish new approaches, and revise legislations as appropriate to secure or improve service provision and equitability across 100 percent of the ocean under national jurisdiction. 2.3 Undertake an assessment, including Government and non-government stakeholder consultation, on application of ocean management tools and determine relevant scope and location of the application to attain benchmarking criteria. 2.4 Assemble a variety of instruments, including nationally applicable area-based management tools and nature based solutions to attain benchmarking criteria and deliver multiple purposes related to national development. 2.5 Implement area-based management instruments to support 100 percent sustainable ocean management, including 30 percent of ocean supporting restoration and conservation of biological diversity and ecosystem services. 2.6 Review benchmarking progress for 100 percent sustainable ocean management and re-orient action as required through the NOPSC. 2.7 Produce sustainable ocean plans and develop capacity to mainstream 100 percent ocean sustainability into all ocean-relevant sectors in terms of capacity, policy, strategies, planning and budget procedures and raise awareness regarding the value of marine ecosystem services to ocean-related sectors and actors. 2.8 Constantly review and update Fiji’s catalogue on dangerous synthetic chemicals and pollutants for farming and industrial use and implement a phase-out of these pollutants. 9 The definition is adopted from the CBD“which states that an area within or adjacent to the marine environment, together with its overlying waters and associated flora, fauna, and historical and cultural features, which has been reserved by legislation or other effective means, including custom, with the effect that its marine and/or coastal biodiversity enjoys a higher level of protection than its surroundings”. Different criteria’s or typologies of MPA’shave been developed, which includes from a complete ‘no-take’zone to areas adopting different management measures to protect, manage and sustain biodiversity of a particular area. 10 This is defined as geographically defined areas governed and managed in ways that achieve positive and sustained long-term outcomes for the in situ conservation of biodiversity, with associated ecosystem functions and services and where applicable, cultural, spiritual, socio–economic, and other locally relevant values. 32 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 Goal 3 - Security It is recognised that maritime security requires combatting multiple threats such as those from natural disaster, climate change, pollution events, and unregulated exploitation of resources. © Sangeeta Mangubhai, WCS N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 33 Goal 3- SECURITY: To safeguard assets and ensure regulatory compliance for multidimensional maritime security of 100 percent of Fiji’s ocean within national jurisdiction. The NOP’s maritime security goal covers multidimensional aspects including economic, resource and environmental security, public health and social wellbeing. This goal includes traditional monitoring, compliance and enforcement components of boundaries and sovereignty, the safe use of shipping sea lanes and permitted marine activities, as well as non-traditional maritime security issues related to myriad threats including extreme events and transnational crime. The security goal ensures Fiji’s AWNJ is safeguarded and its resources and assets (such as underwater cables), permissible marine activities including sea-lanes of communication, and intangible assets such as heritage are compliant with national and international policy and regulations. Maritime security requires combatting multiple threats such as those from natural disaster, climate change, pollution events, and unregulated exploitation of resources. Establishing and maintaining multidimensional maritime security will facilitate the capture of sustainable development opportunities in the sustainable ocean economy and promulgate innovation and technology transfer. In turn, advancement of an inclusive ocean economy will help increase socio-economic benefits, thus reducing incentives for maritime criminality such as illegal fishing and trafficking. The vastness of ocean space has traditionally meant that the ocean has been lightly governed however, there is growing need for a more systematic and harmonized approach to coordinate the ocean space of Fiji in appreciation of the multiple services it provides. This would include establishing monitoring and surveillance systems to collectively manage and safeguard 100 percent of Fiji’s AWNJ. This goal will play a pivotal role in ensuring compliance to boundaries and regulations within area based management tools developed through marine spatial planning processes. This includes ensuring Fiji’s MPAs remain functional, secured and managed from potential threats in the maritime domain. It also involves safeguarding fish stocks through systematic monitoring and enforcement of laws governing illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing as well as through strong partnerships with relevant stakeholders. Finally, the divide that separates land and ocean management must be reduced so that coastal and land-based impacts that threaten the sustainability of the ocean are dealt with in a collaborative way; this will require the involvement of agencies that have a predominantly land-based remit and have not routinely been involved in ocean management. Enhancing maritime security will require a whole-of-government approach strengthened through enhanced national maritime domain awareness, as well as close collaboration with other countries in the region and regional sector agencies (such as the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency). Diversifying and strengthening maritime security through the NOP and other policy instruments will help safeguard the other goals in the NOP and ensure that the social, cultural, economic and environmental benefits are not undermined. STRATEGIES: 3.1 Increase national maritime domain awareness among national agencies (such as the Ministry of Fisheries, Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji, Water Police and Fiji Navy), private sector (such as tourism operators and shipping companies) and local communities, as well as relevant regional and international partners and governments. 3.2 Promote a more coordinated approach through coherent institutional arrangements coupled with enhanced inter agency information management and work delivery across multidimensional security issues. 3.3 Expand coordination among agencies to safeguard the ocean from land based including coastal threats through the establishment of a protocol and communication procedure through a national focal point. 3.4 Increase enforcement through ocean surveillance, including designated area based management tools and fishing hotspots, and ensure compliance of all marine activities. 3.5 Strengthen regulations where necessary, including for periods of emergency, transnational crime and use all available means to legally pursue all infringements. 34 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 Goal 4 - People The unique oceanic culture and traditions of all Fijian communities need to be respected and centrally-positioned in a sustainable approach to ocean management. N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 35 Goal 4 - PEOPLE: Promote a people-centred approach to ocean management by sharing benefits in an equitable and inclusive way that respects rights, traditions and culture. The unique culture and traditions related to the ocean of all Fijian communities need to be respected and positioned centrally in a sustainable approach to ocean management. Supporting livelihoods and lifestyles of those who derive benefits from the ocean is a priority. Diversifying livelihoods through further sustainable development of the ocean can support socio-economic development as framed by the National Development Plan. Ensuring inclusion of all parts of society is important, and appropriate mechanisms need to be strengthened or formed to facilitate further inclusion. The benefits of sustainable development of the ocean should accrue to society in an equitable way. The improved understanding of flows of benefits to different parts of society needs to be better understood, and monitoring of those flows of benefits is required to ensure that they are equitable and inclusive across the community. STRATEGIES: 4.1 Promote, support and expand ocean-related sustainable livelihoods through improved cross-sectoral resource management, awareness raising and capacity development, building resilience and diversifying income sources. 4.2 Use policy, oversight and coordination, practice measures and other means to achieve gender equality and social inclusion of all parts of society engaged in the ocean through economic (equity), traditional, cultural and other forms. 4.3 Ensure progress towards increased equitability of ocean benefits across society, through an improved understanding and monitoring of benefit flows across society. 36 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 Goal 5 - Development ...it is recognised that the National Ocean Policy and associated arrangements will facilitate the mobilisation and targeting of financial and other resources from domestic and international sources to sustainable development opportunities. © Stuart Chape N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 37 Goal 5 – Development: Establish a solid foundation for sustainable development, which includes facilitating ocean-based opportunities and innovations to ensure healthy ecosystems and secure economic livelihoods. Whilst the maintenance of traditions, culture and rights around the ocean is a priority, an increasing number of opportunities in the ocean exist for socio-economic development. The NOP contributes to capturing sustainable, inclusive and resilient development opportunities for the ocean that emerge from technical progress, innovation and enhanced understanding of the ocean and align with the NDP, the NAP, and the LEDS. The NOP acts as a critical observatory for development opportunities from unfolding events, where identified pathways for rebuilding the ocean economy and investing towards marine technologies that can help us more efficiently and effectively observe and understand our ocean. Finally, the NOP and associated arrangements will facilitate the mobilisation and targeting of financial and other resources from domestic and international sources towards sustainable development opportunities. This will include innovative financial mechanisms as well as budgetary procedures to provide the most adequate resources to undertake the sustainable development of oceans. STRATEGIES: 5.1 Realise and seize emerging ocean opportunities and innovations through development partners regional and international collaboration of development partners as well as the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science including technical, economic and social dimensions that are aligned to the NDP and other national plans, especially those that employ nature-based solutions. 5.2 Enhance opportunities for mitigating or reducing effects on the ocean of new developments and existing activities, including impacts from waterways, coastal and land-based sources. 5.3 Mobilise and target resources for sustainable ocean development through national ocean budgeting, promoting blue investment instruments to further capitalise on opportunities to ensure sustainable ocean financing. This includes removing harmful subsidies that contribute to overcapacity, overfishing, and IUU fishing. 38 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 Goal 6 - Knowledge ...focus on combining the use of traditional and local knowledge and practice with scientific knowledge and embedding this in management practise is needed. © Stuart Chape N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 39 Goal 6 – KNOWLEDGE: Integrate traditional knowledge, heritage, and cultural practises with knowledge acquired from scientific research, to provide a holistic platform that can meet the contemporary challenges of the ocean. Improving ocean knowledge for improved decision-making is a key to achieving sustainable ocean management. The NOP recognises that society at large needs to understand the value of the ocean, and that this understanding can be nurtured through building greater ocean literacy among diverse stakeholder groups. Further focus on combining the use of traditional and local knowledge and practice with scientific knowledge and embedding this in management practice is needed. Obligatory protocols for due care and respect are needed to safeguard traditional and local knowledge as well as formal access and benefit-sharing agreements where necessary. Promoting further scientific understanding of the ocean in learned Fijian institutions, through opportunities such as the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021- 2030), is a priority. This includes a committed approach to integrated management of the various ocean-related sectors through more multi and trans-disciplinary studies and analysis. In addition, the NOP also formally commits to development of an ocean curriculum across all Fijian schools to improve capacity development. Ocean literacy is defined as the understanding of human influence on the ocean and the ocean’s influence on people; embedding ocean literacy within formal, informal and non-formal education is aligned to the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development. Further opportunities to advance ocean literacy among a broader range of stakeholders, including youths will also be developed. STRATEGIES: 6.1 Through free, prior and informed consent via a clear legal protocol, acquire, document, and safeguard traditional, local knowledge and practices related to the ocean, including through access and benefit sharing (ABS) agreements for any utilisation of marine genetic resources and associated traditional ecological knowledge. 6.2 Strengthen scientific data, interoperability between data systems and knowledge through research partnerships to advance understanding and improved ocean management, aligning with the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development. 6.3 Underpin ocean-related decision making with the best available scientific evidence, multi-sectoral or trans disciplinary understanding and traditional, cultural knowledge, language and practice. 6.4 Develop and implement a universal ocean curriculum across all schools (formal, informal and the non-formal sector) which enhances ocean literacy. 6.5 Encourage public awareness of, and access to knowledge on ocean and marine issues and support investment in youth stewardship initiatives. 40 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 Goal 7 - Advocacy Wider appreciation of the reliance on the ocean by Fijians and the global role the Pacific Ocean plays in mitigating climate change is required. N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 41 Goal 7 – ADVOCACY: Recognising both the interconnected nature of the ocean and the need for ambitious ocean management, and deepened understanding of the ocean-climate nexus, the NOP lays out how Fiji can engage in regional and global advocacy that aligns with and fortifies ongoing national endeavours. The NOP recognises the urgent need for regional and global advocacy on oceans. Wider appreciation of the reliance on the ocean by Fijians and the global role the Pacific Ocean plays in mitigating climate change is required. Activities in Fiji and outside Fijian waters can have significant impacts on ocean health and resources within Fijian waters. For example, overfishing of pelagic species in other national jurisdictions or in the high seas (ABNJ) can reduce stocks within Fiji’s national jurisdiction. In addition, GHG emissions from other countries contribute to the climate change impacts are experienced in Fiji. Such impacts are projected to continue in the future in the marine environment, including sea level rise, high intensity cyclones, heavy rainfall, ocean warming, and coral bleaching. Advocacy around the reliance of Fijians on the ocean, the transboundary effects on Fijian waters and the role of the ocean-climate nexus must be promoted to current and future generations. STRATEGIES: 7.1 Strengthen awareness of the ocean through the NOP and the partnerships needed to achieve the outcomes of the NOP through consistent and holistic communication at all levels. 7.2 Empower ocean champions as advocates for a sustainable future for the ocean. 7.3 Advocate at local, national, regional and global scales for enhanced ocean sustainability and the vital importance of the biodiversity, conservation and ocean-climate nexus and security to Pacific SIDS. 42 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 A healthy ocean that sustains the livelihoods and aspirations of current and future generations of Fiji. © Stuart Chape N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 43 4. Implementation 4.1 Governance Arrangements Institutional setup The NOP will be managed and administered by the Climate Change and International Cooperation Division (CCICD) of the Ministry of Economy. Oversight responsibilities ensuring general support of the NOP and providing insight to policy reform processes, will fall under the purview NOPSC. The NOPSC will carry out its role in an advisory capacity with the final decision vested in the responsible line Minister. This section, and its authority will be mandated through the Climate Change Bill 2020. The NOPSC will comprise of representatives from Government ministries, non-governmental organisations, private sector and agencies with due consideration to females appointed by the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Economy. Permanent membership of the NOPSC will consist of the Permanent Secretaries of the following Government Ministries: 1) Ministry of Economy (NOPSC Chair) 2) Ministry of Fisheries 3) Ministry of Defence, National Security and Policing 4) Ministry of Environment 5) Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources 6) Ministry of iTaukei Affairs 7) Ministry of Foreign Affairs 8) Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport 9) Ministry of Education, Heritage and Arts 10) Ministry of Youths and Sports 11) Ministry of Education, Heritage and Arts 12) Ministry of Infrastructure and Meteorological Services 13) Office of the Prime Minister 14) Office of the Solicitor General A senior level representative from Republic of Fiji Navy will also be included. Two further permanent members, acting as scientific advisers and selected on the basis of individual scientific achievement, will complete the NOPSC membership . The Scientific Advisers will be senior staff from: The University of the South Pacific, University of Fiji or Fiji National University. The Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Economy will make the appointments on the advice from the permanent NOPSC members. Their appointment will be agreed on by the NOPSC and they will serve a two-year term, for a maximum of two recurrent terms. The Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Economy shall also allow for additional technical advisers including representatives from the non-governmental organisations and the private sector, as or when needed with an ‘observer’ status to the NOPSC. The NOPSC will refer to existing technical bodies or may establish official subsidiary technical bodies to help delivery NOP’s goals. The subsidiary bodies will be formed by the NOPSC through a Terms of Reference which outlines a clear role of the body in support of the NOP, a defined purpose of the body, a list of members and responsibilities within the body, and a defined timeline of body’s activity. Subsidiary bodies will be established for a finite time period. Their function and value will be reviewed in the NOP Review Reports. Subsidiary bodies will report singly and directly to the NOPSC. The NOPSC by agreement will reserve the right to change or terminate the Terms of Reference of any subsidiary body. Existing committees or working groups related to the ocean may be requested to provide meeting minutes or specific outputs to the NOPSC, in order to facilitate NOP delivery. 44 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 An annual CRMOT will be convened by the NOPSC. This Talanoa will focus on a number of themes related to challenges in operationalising the NOP and its deliverables and will be open to a broad range of interested stakeholders. A report of the Talanoa will be publicly available and a summary will be provided in the Annual Progress Report. The NOPSC is a gender neutral platform and actively encourages participation of women in the NOPSC. MACC (Maritime Areas Coordinating Committee) Ministry of Foreign Affairs NEC (National Environment Council) Department of Environment PAC (Protected Areas Committee) Department of Environment NOPSC (National Ocean Policy Steering Committee) Ministry of Economy MSPAC (Marine Spill Pollution Advisory Committee) Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport MPATC (Marine Protected Areas Technical Committee) Ministry of Fisheries The National Ocean Policy Steering Committee (NOPSC) is comprised of members from the Maritime Affairs Coordinating Committee (MACC), Marine Protected Areas Technical Committee (MPATC), Protected Areas Committee (PAC) and the Marine Spill Pollution Advisory Committee (MSPAC). The respective members provide insight from their technical committees to the NOPSC and coordinate ocean related activities in tandem to the National Ocean Policy. NOP Governance Structure Consists of – Ministry of Forestry, Department of Environment, Ministry of Fisheries, Ministry of ITaukei Affairs, Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport, National Trust of Fiji, Native Land Trust Board, six representatives from non government organisations, academia and the private sector. Consists of – Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Department of Environment, Ministry of Fisheries, Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources, Ministry of Itaukei Affairs, Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport, Office of the Prime Minister, Attorney Generals Office and Fiji Island Maritime Safety Administration. Consists of – Ministry of Fisheries, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Department of Environment, Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Economy, Ministry of ITaukei Affairs, Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources, Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport, Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji, Fiji Navy, International Union on Conservation of Nature, Wildlife Conservation Society, World Wildlife Fund and Conservation International. Consists of – Ministry of Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport, Ministry of Itaukei Affairs, Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources, Department of Environment, Ministry of Defense, National Security and Policing, National Fire Authority, Fiji Navy, Fiji Ports, Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji, Victoria Marine, Neptune Shipping Agent, Total (Fiji) PTE Ltd, Mobil Oil Ltd, Representatives from the Municipalities, Representative from the Provincial Council. N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 45 A team of researchers undertaking a mangrove forest survey in Malumu Bay. © Pacific Blue Foundation Annual Progress Report A NOP Progress Report shall be produced every year with reference to existing technical and advisory groups that relate to ocean matters in Fiji, compiled by CCICD as the Secretariat. The report will outline the progress in NOP delivery and identify lessons learnt, best practices and future opportunities. The Annual Progress Reports will be submitted to NOPSC for review and a formal response and guidance will be produced by the NOPSC to guide re-orientation. The Progress Reports and the NOPSC guidance will be made available online. Five-year Review Report A NOP Review Report will be produced every five years by CCICD. The Review Report shall include, but not be limited to, a five-year review of progress of the NOP based on progress in indicators as outlined in section 5.2, identification of substantial progress and challenging areas, emerging lessons and recommendations for NOP revision or reform. The five-year Review Reports will be submitted to NOPSC for review and a formal response and guidance will be produced by NOPSC to guide re-orientation. The five-year Review Reports and the NOPSC formal response and guidance will be made available online. If the Review Report proposes updating of the NOP, and this is endorsed by the NOPSC, modification of the NOP via a consultative approach by the Ministry of Economy and ratification of the revised NOP shall take place within one year of submission of the Review Report. The NOP reform process shall be managed by CCICD. Provisions under the Policy Editorial amendments are permitted to the NOP by the NOPSC in order to update, review and make relevant changes to the policy document as appropriate based on the needs and priorities of Fiji via a stakeholder consultation process. Oversight Oversight of the progress of NOP implementation on an advisory capacity shall be vested in the NOPSC. The NOPSC will review and formally provide comments to the Secretariat on the Progress Reports and Review Reports. The NOPSC will also liaise with relevant technical and advisory committees such as the Marine Affairs Coordinating Committee, the Protected Areas Committee, the Marine Spill Pollution Advisory Committee and the Marine Protected Areas Technical Committee as and when required on ocean-related matters to ensure ongoing alignment and coordination as well as to strengthen implementation strategies. The NOPSC will also disseminate Progress Reports and Review Reports to the National Environment Council and receive any comments. 4.2 Strategies Specific strategies and outcomes for 10 years to 2030 under each of the seven goals (see Section 5.2). Some are likely to be achieved over 1-2 year timeframe, where others will take longer. These strategies are also annexed as a summary table under Section 6.0 of this Policy. 46 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 To secure and sustainably manage Fiji’s ocean and its marine resources. A team of researchers undertaking a mangrove forest survey in Malumu Bay. © Pacific Blue Foundation N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 47 5. Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning 5.1 Process and Protocols The MEL process shall be led and coordinated by CCICD. The MEL process will include a broad array of actors, including custodian entities for the NOP indicators as well as views and inputs from other Government agencies, non-governmental organisations and community members. Information should be shared by any entities that have implemented, or contributed to implementing NOP actions. The MEL shall be fully reported in the Annual Progress Reports and five-year Review Report. The reports should include a formal report on the progress of each indicator involved in the monitoring, an evaluation of progress in achieving the NOP and emergent learning from delivery of the NOP that can help strengthen its operationalisation and coordination approach. A set of recommendations to enhance NOP delivery shall be produced for consideration by the NOPSC; including the addition, removal or substitution of a monitoring indicator. The MEL shall recognise and report on two formal levels; firstly, outputs emerging from delivery of strategies, and secondly, outcomes that contribute to delivery of the goals. In addition, and linked to the MEL learning element, it should reflect on processes and protocols by which significant progress has been made, or challenged. Written responses to the Progress Reports and Review Reports and NOPSC guidance can be submitted to NOPSC, via CCICD, from interested parties recognised as involved in the NOP delivery. The NOPSC will consider these submitted comments at its next scheduled meeting and provide a response and feedback if requested. 5.2 Implementation Plan The following table identifies indicators for outputs emerging from delivery of NOP strategies, and outcomes which contribute to delivery of the seven NOP goals. 48 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 Strategy Indicator Lead Reporting frequency (yr) Baseline Target (by year) including legislative/ policy references GOAL 1: COOPERATION Outcome 1: NOPSC and stakeholders working collaboratively for a sustainable ocean NOPSC and stakeholders promote enhance harmonisation and cooperation for a sustainable ocean through identified multi-stakeholder coordination mechanisms. Ministry of Economy 1 0 No Data (ND) as relevant, number of mechanisms (by end of Year 10) Output 1.1 Develop the NOP governance framework including the NOPSC and subsidiary working groups, with defined remits and associated agreed protocols and defined meeting schedule. • Set up arrangements of NOPSC agreed and established in year one • Quarterly meetings of NOPSC documented with minutes • Regular meetings of subsidiary working groups documented by minutes • Capture activities pertaining to ocean related events at the national and international forum for the benefit of ensuring alignment of the NOP Ministry of Economy/NOPSC 1 ¼ as relevant 1 No 4 0 0 Yes (by end of Y1) 20 (by Y5) ND (No Data, as relevant; by Y10) Yes (by end of Y1) for the next 10 years Climate Change Bill 2020 Output 1.2 Develop, adopt and implement a MEL Plan, from activity to mission level, with verifiable indicators, which reports annually to NOPSC. • MEL developed and reported in Annual Progress Reports which are publicly available Ministry of Economy/NOPSC 1 0 10 (by Y 10) Climate Change Bill 2020 Output 1.3 Undertake a mapping and analyses of the policies, laws and institutional arrangements to identify the existing information and gaps to inform cross-sector policy reform and strengthen decision making. • Quarterly meetings of NOPSC documented with minutes • Annual Progress Report published online Ministry of Economy/ NOPSC ¼ 1 0 0 20 (by Y5) 5 (by Y5) Climate Change Bill 2020 N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 49 Strategy Indicator Lead Reporting frequency (yr) Baseline Target (by year) including legislative/ policy references Output 1.4 Identify new mechanisms to strengthen institutional alignment and employ additional resources and tools to promote coordination between government including at different levels of Government and non-government stakeholders including in resource mobilisation approaches. • Mechanisms identified by NOPSC and strengthened to improve coordination in sustainable ocean management • Alignment at the regional level through the regional office on ocean affairs. Ministry of Economy / NOPSC 1 0 Fisheries Act 1941 Environment Management Act 2005 Marine Space Act 1977 Climate Change Bill 2020 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent Output 1.5 Implement an annual CRMOT • CRMOT report Ministry of Economy/NOPSC 1 0 10 (by Y10) Climate Change Bill 2020 Output 1.6 The NOPSC to carry out a review informed by the MEL, and revise and as required, the NOP at least every five years. • Five-year Review Report including recommendations for reform of NOP which are publicly available • NOP updated to consider mid-term review findings • Ten-year Review Report produced as per requirements of NOPSC Ministry of Economy/ NOPSC/ coordinating and implementing agencies 5 No No No Yes (by Y5) Yes (by Y6) Yes (by Y10) Climate Change Bill 2020 50 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 Strategy Indicator Lead Reporting frequency (yr) Baseline Target (by year) including legislative/ policy references GOAL 2: SUSTAINABILITY Outcome 2: Sustainable management of the ocean within national jurisdiction achieved and benchmarked Benchmarking of management of the Ocean within national jurisdiction demonstrates sustainability and resilience NOPSC 5 No Yes (by end of year 10)). Output 2.1 Define and build awareness about the range of ecosystem and climate services provided by healthy, fully functioning marine ecosystems and biodiversity and the associated economic and non economic benefits. • Develop information notes on a range of ocean services to best inform stakeholders. Ministry of Economy / NOPSC No Yes (by Y2) Fisheries Act 1941 Environment Management Act 2005 Marine Space Act 1977 Climate Change Bill 2020 High Level Ocean Panel Output 2.2 Revitalise and strengthen existing sectoral policies and processes, or establish new approaches, and revise legislations as appropriate to secure or improve service provision and equitability across 100 percent of the ocean under national jurisdiction. • Review and update policies and plans as appropriate to ensure the NOP is achievable and is integrated into all marine related priority areas for Fiji. Ministry of Economy / NOPSC No Yes (by Y2) National Development Plan Green Growth Framework for Fiji 2014 National Adaptation Plan N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 51 Strategy Indicator Lead Reporting frequency (yr) Baseline Target (by year) including legislative/ policy references Output 2.3 Undertake an assessment, including government and stakeholder consultation, on the application of ocean management tools and determine relevant scope and location of application to attain benchmarking criteria. • Identify and develop a management plan necessary to address the restoration and protection of blue carbon ecosystems for healthy functioning of the ocean. This will advance carbon capture and storage in the sub-seabed through international collaboration, appropriate incentives, and mapping storage potential of the sub seabed geological formations. This will be done through control of activities via permits and licensing, fisheries closure areas, pollution management zones, seabed mining exclusion areas alongside mechanisms for ensuring compliance and planning controls and zoning of marine space such as via MSP and integrated coastal zone management. Ministry of Economy/ Ministry of Lands/ Ministry of Forestry/Ministry of Fisheries/ Department of Environment/ NOPSC 2 No Yes (by Y3) Marine Space Act 1977 Mining Act 1965 Continental Shelf Act 1970 Offshore Fisheries Management Act 2012 Environment Management Act 2005 Climate Change Bill 2020 iTaukei Lands Act 1905 State Lands Act 1945 Land Development Act 1961 Land Use Act 2010 Forest Act 1992 Output 2.4 Assemble a variety of instruments, including nationally applicable area based management tools and nature based solutions to attain benchmarking criteria and deliver multiple purposes related to national development. • Areas determined for application of appropriate area based tools by the Government and stakeholders. Ministry of Economy / NOPSC 3 0 4 (by Y10, in years 4, 6, 8 and 10) National Development Plan Climate Change Bill 2020 52 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 Strategy Indicator Lead Reporting frequency (yr) Baseline Target (by year) including legislative/ policy references Output 2.5 Implement area based management instruments to support 100 percent sustainable ocean management, including 30 percent of the ocean supporting restoration and conservation of biological diversity and ecosystem services. • Percent of ocean surface covered by at least one management measure for each economic sector • Benchmarking reports of management plan under sustainable management of the ocean through area based management tools. • 100 percent of ocean under area based management instruments promoting ocean sustainability. • 10 percent of ocean legally designated supporting conservation and protection of the marine environment • 30 percent of ocean legally designated supporting conservation and protection of the marine environment • Monitor the net loss and increase the extent and condition of coastal and marine ecosystems, in particular critical ecosystems such as mangroves, seagrasses, salt marshes, sand dunes reefs and deep ocean ecosystems. Department of Environment/ Ministry of Fisheries/Ministry of Defence/ Ministry of iTaukei Affairs and coordinating and implementing agencies 10 5 10 ND ND ND 100% ocean covered in appropriate area based tools (by Y10) 5% of ocean designated supporting conservation and protection (by Y3) 10% of ocean designated supporting conservation and protection (by Y5) 30% of ocean designated supporting conservation and protection (by Y10) Offshore Offshore Fisheries Management Act 2012 Fiji National Development Plan Climate Change Bill 2020 Output 2.6 Review 100 percent sustainable ocean management benchmarking progress and re orient action as required through the NOPSC. • Review Report “State of the Ocean Report” Ministry of Economy / NOPSC 5 No Yes (in T5 and Y10, by Y10) 100% of ocean covered by a management measure promoting environmental sustainability for each sector (by Y10) Climate Change Bill 2020 N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 53 Strategy Indicator Lead Reporting frequency (yr) Baseline Target (by year) including legislative/ policy references Output 2.7 Produce sustainable ocean plan and develop capacity to mainstream 100 percent ocean sustainability into all ocean-relevant sectors in terms of capacity, policy, strategies, planning and budget procedures and raise awareness on the value of marine ecosystem services to ocean-related sectors and actors. • Sustainable ocean plan developed and socialised into all ocean-relevant sectors. Ministry of Economy / NOPSC/ No Yes (by Y4) 100% of ocean covered by a management measure promoting environmental sustainability for each sector (by Y10) Environment Management Act 2005 Offshore Fisheries Management Act 2012 Marine Spaces Act 1977 Climate Change Bill 2020 Output 2.8 Constantly review and update Fiji’s catalogue on dangerous synthetic chemicals and pollutants for farming/industrial use and implement a phase-out of these pollutants. • Prepare a catalogue on dangerous synthetic chemicals and pollutants for the environment and work out a management plan of these pollutants. • Scale up environmentally responsible commercial farming of seaweed and algae to create alternatives for products such as fuels, aquaculture and agriculture feedstock’s, biotech, and viable and sustainable plastic alternatives. • Promote agriculture farming practices and technology that minimizes the discharge of excess pesticides, fertilizers, manure and soil particles to eliminate ocean dead zones and eutrophication in coastal waters. NOPSC/Ministry pf Environment 2 No Environment Management Act 2005 Maritime Transport Act 2013 Pesticides Act 1971 Ozone Depleting Substances Act 1998 Rivers and Streams Act 1880 54 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 Strategy Indicator Lead Reporting frequency (yr) Baseline Target (by year) including legislative/ policy references GOAL 3: SECURITY Outcome 3: To safeguard assets and ensure regulatory compliance for multidimensional maritime security of 100 percent of Fiji’s ocean within national jurisdiction. Cases of non compliance to marine regulations, including area based management tools. Ministry of Economy / NOPSC 1 ND 10 (by Y10) Output 3.1 Increase national maritime domain awareness among national agencies (such as the Ministry of Fisheries, Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji, Water Police and Fiji Navy), private sector (such as tourism operators and shipping lines) and local communities, as well as relevant regional and international partners and governments to further embed multidimensional security into 100 percent sustainable AWNJ management. • Awareness raising activities undertaken with all relevant agencies that include multidimensional ocean security, including Fisheries, Environment, Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji, Water Police, Fiji Navy, intelligence, customs, immigration, Attorney-General’s office, and relevant stakeholders • Establish consultation with partner countries/ users of Fiji sea lanes of communication, and the private sector to strengthen cooperation between governments and businesses to finance activities that can improve navigational safety and improve pollution prevention and control (e.g. removal of wrecks, renewal of navigational aids; tide and current observation devices). Ministry of Economy / NOPSC Ministry for Defence and National Security 2 5 ND ND Yes (4 events by Y5) Yes (progress report to NOPSC in Y5 and Y10 Marine Spaces Act 1977 Mining Act 1965 Environment Management Act 2005 Continental Shelf Act 170 Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji Act 2009 Maritime Transport Act 2013 Republic of Fiji Military Forces Act 1949 N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 55 Strategy Indicator Lead Reporting frequency (yr) Baseline Target (by year) including legislative/ policy references Output 3.2. Enhanced inter agency information management and work delivery across multidimensional security issues. • Establishment of a subsidiary working group under NOPSC for maritime security to coordinate with Fiji’s National Security Council (NSC) and Marine Affairs Coordinating Committee (MACC) and the Marine Spill Pollution Advisory Committee (MSPAC) on matters relating to maritime safety, protection and resource conservation and to provide 6-month updates to NOPSC. • Six-month reporting by the NEST (National Environment Security Taskforce) to NOPSC from subsidiary group on multidimensional security. • Implementing agencies conducting joint training with relevant partners specialized in addressing ocean threats, including reporting and monitoring of training activities, and ensuring that these activities are in line with the national security and safety requirements. • Stronger links recognised between multiple maritime security agencies to foster information sharing and coordinated border management. Ministry of Economy / NOPSC National Environment Security Taskforce Ministry for Defence and National Security Fiji Police Force Ministry of Economy / NOPSC Ministry of Economy / NOPSC National Environment Security Taskforce Marine Affairs Coordinating Committee ½ ½ 2 5 No No No No Yes (9 by Y5, 19 by Y10) Yes (9 by Y5, 19 by Y10) Yes (2 training events by Y5, 5 by Y10) Yes (1 review of status report in Y5, 1 review report in Y10) Marine Spaces Act 1977 MACC Republic of Fiji Military Forces Act 1949 Environment Management Act 2005 Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji Act 2009 Maritime Transport Act 2013 56 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 Strategy Indicator Lead Reporting frequency (yr) Baseline Target (by year) including legislative/ policy references Output 3.3. Expand coordination among agencies to safeguard the ocean from land-based threats through establishment of a protocol and communication procedure through a national focal point. • Review diversity of threats and assess location, scale and hotspots of coastal and land-based sources which threaten ocean activities, assets and sustainability. • A focal point for assessment of coastal and land based impacts is consulted and instigated for an avoidance and response protocol and communication procedure for land sourced impact events and to work with designated agencies under Environmental Management Act and Marine Transport Act. • Focal point to report annually to NOPSC on coastal and land based threats, their occurrences and suitability of existing regulatory regime to minimize coastal and land-based impacts. • Apply the global regime for safe and environmentally sound recycling of ships. Ministry for Defence and National Security/ National Environment Security Taskforce Ministry of Economy / NOPSC Focal point/ Ministry of Economy / NOPSC 3 2 1 No No No Yes (1 threat diversity report in Y3) Yes (focal point established by Y2) Yes (2 annual reports from focal point by Y5, 7 reports by Y10) Environment Management Act 2005 Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji Act 2009 Maritime Transport Act 2013 N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 57 Strategy Indicator Lead Reporting frequency (yr) Baseline Target (by year) including legislative/ policy references Output 3.4 Increase enforcement through surveillance of the ocean, including designated area based management tools and fishing hotspots, and ensure compliance of all marine activities. • Surveillance protocols, vessel monitoring system (VMS) and other pilotage and early warning systems to control hazards in the sea considering the multiple threats in the ocean environment are coordinated and resourced. • MoU signed between coordinating and implementing agencies, including Fiji Police Force, Fiji Navy, Ministry of Fisheries, Department of Environment, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of iTaukei Affairs, to build a surveillance and emergency response plan regarding Fiji’s area based management tools, including MPAs. • Task force emergency mobilization exercises undertaken twice a year involving a range of stakeholders, including Fiji’s police force. • Awareness and advocacy materials developed and distributed on legislative processes, infringements and non-compliance penalties; including at the fishing community grassroots level. Ministry for Defence and National Security Fiji Navy Ministry for Defence and National Security and the Department of Environment Ministry for Defence and National Security Ministry for Defence and National Security Fiji Police Force Ministry iTaukei Affairs 5 3 ½ 2 ND No No No Yes (report to NOPSC Y1 and Y10) Yes (MoU signed and submitted to NOPSC, MACC, MSPAC and NEST) Yes (2 per year from Y4) Yes (2 types of material distributed every 2 years) Marine Spaces Act 1977 MACC Republic of Fiji Military Forces Act 1949 Environment Management Act 2005 Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji Act 2009 Maritime Transport Act 2013 58 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 Strategy Indicator Lead Reporting frequency (yr) Baseline Target (by year) including legislative/ policy references Outputs 3.5. Strengthen regulations and mandated legislative powers where necessary, including for emergencies, and use all available means to legally pursue all infringements. • Compendium of non-compliance in relation to marine regulatory regime. • Revision, or addition, to regulatory regime where specific weaknesses are recognised by NOPSC. • MoU/cooperation agreements signed between Fiji and partner countries to cover cooperation for periods of emergency, particularly for search and rescue, and for hot pursuit. Ministry of Economy / NOPSC Ministry for Defence and National Security Ministry of Economy / NOPSC 2 No Yes (5 compendiums by Y10) As required As required Marine Spaces Act 1977 Republic of Fiji Military Forces Act 1949 Environment Management Act 2005 Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji Act 2009 Maritime Transport Act 2013 Strategy Indicator Lead Reporting frequency (yr) Baseline Target (by year) including legislative/ policy references GOAL 4: PEOPLE Outcome 4: Ocean based livelihoods have expanded and become more inclusive Ocean-based livelihoods have increased in size and number with reduced marginalisation Ministry of Economy 5 ND % livelihoods increase on Y3 baseline in size, number and inclusivity, including marginalised groups and women (by Y5 and Y10) Output 4.1 Build awareness on ocean-related livelihoods in sectoral government bodies, private sector and community actors and couple with new ocean investments. • Awareness raising events and recognition of importance of ocean related livelihoods in policy and plans • Create inclusive governance by incorporating indigenous and local knowledge and interests, particularly those of women, in planning and decision-making processes. Ministry of Defence/ Department of Environment/ Ministry of Fisheries 5 ND Number of events and number of plans and policies by sector (by Y5 and 10) Climate Change Bill 2020 N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 59 Strategy Indicator Lead Reporting frequency (yr) Baseline Target (by year) including legislative/ policy references Output 4.2 Assess degree of gender equality and social inclusion of all parts of society engaged in the ocean through economic, traditional, cultural and other forms of users; identify key marginalised groups. • Baseline on women representation into ocean user groups and key marginalised groups involved in ocean usage identified Ministry of Economy / NOPSC and coordinating and implementing agencies ND Assessment of representation and marginalised user groups (by Y3) 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Output 4.3 Ensure progress towards increased equitability of ocean benefits through an improved understanding and monitoring of benefit flows and to achieve gender equity and social inclusion in all parts of society engaged in the ocean through economic, traditional, cultural and other forms. • List of measures taken to support ocean-related livelihoods • Require transparent, responsible business practices that engage communities and protect the rights of all workers throughout in ocean industries. • Promote cooperation to combat child labour and forced labour and eliminate trafficking in persons and contraband along supply chains in the ocean economy. Ministry of Economy / NOPSC 5 ND List of measures by livelihood groups and marginalised groups of individual man, women and youth supported (by Y5 and 10) 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Strategy Indicator Lead Reporting frequency (yr) Baseline Target (by year) including legislative/ policy references GOAL 5: DEVELOPMENT Outcome 5: A solid foundation for sustainable development has been formed, which includes facilitating ocean-based opportunities and innovations to ensure healthy ecosystems and secure economic livelihoods. Secure, innovative, opportunity-driven and collaborative sustainable ocean management achieved with targeted resourcing and compliance with management tools. Ministry of Economy 5 ND ND (cases of non compliance, new opportunities, innovations, collaborative partnerships increase by Y5 and again to Y 10; and Ocean budget increases from Y5 to Y10). 60 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 Strategy Indicator Lead Reporting frequency (yr) Baseline Target (by year) including legislative/ policy references Output 5.1 Realise and seize emerging ocean opportunities and innovations through development partner’s regional and international collaboration as well as the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science including technical, economic and social dimensions, which are aligned to the NDP and other national documents, especially those that employ nature based solutions. • Awareness raising activities undertaken with all stakeholders across various events. • A list of all projects undertaken with development partners. • List of innovations and new associated partnerships inculcated in sustainable AWNJ management • Explore and incentivize smart and sustainable cross-sectoral and co-located activities, such as ocean based renewable energy sites to fuel zero-emission shipping and aquaculture farms. • Scale up environmentally responsible commercial farming of seaweed and algae to create alternatives for products such as fuels, aquaculture and agriculture feedstocks, biotech, and viable and sustainable plastic alternatives. • De-risk investments by creating focused blended finance capacity that utilises concessional finance from the public and private sectors combined with innovative private insurance products. Ministry of Economy/ NOPSC/Ministry of Foreign Affairs/ Office of the Prime Minister 1 ND ND (number of events and number of projects) National Development Plan Fiji Low Emission Development Strategy Green Growth Framework for Fiji 2014 Climate Change Bill N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 61 Strategy Indicator Lead Reporting frequency (yr) Baseline Target (by year) including legislative/ policy references Output 5.2 2 Enhance opportunities for mitigating or reducing effects on the ocean of new developments and existing activities, including impacts from tourism, waterways, coastal and land-based sources. • Awareness raising activities undertaken with all stakeholders across various events mitigating development impacts on oceans. • Alignment of development projects to EIA and Fisheries Impact Assessment (FIA). • Develop inclusive sustainable tourism that addresses climate change and pollution, regenerates ecosystems, builds resilience and reduces inequality. • Strengthen participatory local and international stakeholder engagement in tourism management systems to improve environmental and social outcomes. • Encourage proper management of waste and sewage disposal, treatment, and port reception facilities for coastal and marine tourism. • Ensure that all seabed mineral activities within and beyond national jurisdictions comply with robust environmental standards. Ministry of Economy/ Department of Environment/ Ministry of Fisheries /MCTTT/ NOPSC 1 ND ND National Development Plan Environment Management Act 2005 Offshore Fisheries Management Act 2012 Maritime Transport Act 2013 62 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 Strategy Indicator Lead Reporting frequency (yr) Baseline Target (by year) including legislative/ policy references Output 5.3 Mobilise and target resources for sustainable ocean development through national ocean budgeting, promoting blue investment instruments to further capitalise on opportunities to ensure sustainable ocean financing. This includes removing harmful subsidies that contribute to overcapacity, overfishing, and IUU fishing. • Develop budget tracking process for domestic and external finance targeted fully or partly at ocean sustainability. • Implement process in year 2 and report ocean budget in annual Progress Reports (end Year 2 to 10). • Promote a fair, sustainable and modern tax system that considers sustainable ocean management of the assets. Ministry of Economy/NOPSC 1 1 No 0 Yes (by Y2) 9 Ocean budgets reported (by Y10) Financial Management Act 2004 Strategy Indicator Lead Reporting frequency (yr) Baseline Target (by year) including legislative/ policy references GOAL 6: KNOWLEDGE Outcome 6: Traditional knowledge, heritage, and cultural practices integrated with knowledge acquired from scientific research, to provide a holistic platform that can meet the contemporary challenges of the ocean. Ocean knowledge secure and expanding (number; number of school children taught an ocean curriculum; Baseline: ND; Target: all children, by year 10). Ministry of Economy 5 ND ND (% of all Fijian school children taught an Ocean Literacy: all children, by Y10). Output 6.1 Through free, prior and informed consent via a clear legal protocol to acquire, document, and safeguard traditional, local knowledge and practices related to the ocean, including through ABS agreements for any utilisation of marine genetic resources and associated traditional ecological knowledge. • National process of safeguarding traditional and local ocean related knowledge functional, including free, prior and informed Consent Ministry of iTaukei / Ministry of Fisheries/ Department of Environment 5 No Yes (by end of Y5) Section 40 Constitution of the Republic of Fiji N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 63 Strategy Indicator Lead Reporting frequency (yr) Baseline Target (by year) including legislative/ policy references Output 6.2 Strengthen scientific data, interoperability between data systems and knowledge through research partnerships to advance understanding and improved management of the ocean, aligning with the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021 – 2030). • Cases on involvement by national entities with national, regional or international programmes which provide demonstrable advances in sustainable ocean management. • Formulate a Marine Research Hub for Fiji. • Make available latest innovations and technologies such as satellites, autonomous vehicles, artificial intelligence for near real time data collection, research, monitoring, and enforcement and decision-making. Department of Environment/ Ministry of Fisheries/ Department of Energy/Mineral Resources Department/ Ministry of Education, Heritage and Arts 5 ND ND (number of involvements; by end of Y5) UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development Climate Change Bill 2020 Output 6.3 Underpin ocean-related decision making with the best available scientific evidence, multi-sectoral or trans-disciplinary understanding and traditional, cultural knowledge, language and practice. • Number of applications of multiple disciplines working together to progress sustainable ocean management. NOPSC/ Ministry of ITaukei Affairs/ Department of Environment/ Ministry of Fisheries 5 ND ND (number of applications; by Y5) National Development Plan 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development 64 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 Strategy Indicator Lead Reporting frequency (yr) Baseline Target (by year) including legislative/ policy references Output 6.4 Review, pilot and develop a universal curriculum in ocean literacy for formal, informal and non-formal education. • Identify relevant concepts in the universal curriculum on ocean literacy • Incorporate identified concepts progressively into different year levels and subjects • Pilot the amended curriculum and resources in identified schools • Development of resources to support ocean concepts in the curriculum • Ocean curriculum teacher training undertaken. • Fiji primary and secondary schools, including informal education teaching, to include the ocean curriculum Ministry of Education/ Ministry of Youths and Sports/ NOPSC 5 No ND ND 0 Yes (by Y2) 6 schools piloted (by Y3) Schools with trained teacher (by Y4) 100% Fijian schools teaching ocean Literacy curriculum in Fiji (by Y5) Education Act 1966 Non Formal Education Policy UNESCO – IOC Ocean Literacy Portal Output 6.5 Encourage public awareness of, and access to knowledge on ocean and marine issues and support investment in youth stewardship initiatives and ocean data reporting. • A database or portal for the management of NOP materials and resources • Meaningful youth participation in ocean awareness/action Ministry of Communications/ Ministry of Youths and Sports/ NOPSC 1 Yes (by Y1) for the next 10 years Number of events attended to by youths/ youth groups Fiji Climate Change Portal Climate Change Bill 2020 N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 65 Strategy Indicator Lead Reporting frequency (yr) Baseline Target (by year) including legislative/ policy references GOAL 7: ADVOCACY Outcome 7: Fiji is recognised regionally and internationally as an advocate for a sustainable and climate-resilient ocean Key senior responsible actors identify strong advocacy for oceans from Fiji representatives. Ministry of Economy 10 No Yes, from Pacific Ocean Commissioner and UN Special Envoy for the Ocean or similar (by Y10) Output 7.1 Strengthen awareness of the ocean and the NOP and the partnerships needed to achieve the outcomes of the NOP through consistent and holistic communication at all levels. • Awareness raising activities undertaken with all stakeholders across various events. • Multilateral, bilateral, and unilateral meeting with donors, NGO partners, CSO’s, private sector and all relevant stakeholders. Department of Environment/ Ministry of Fisheries/ Ministry of Economy / Ministry of Foreign Affairs/ Office of the Prime Minister/ NOPSC 1 0 ND (instances of advocacy, by Y5) UNFCCC - Ocean Pathway Partnership High Level Ocean Panel Convention on Biological Diversity BBNJ UNCLOS UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development Output 7.2 Empower ocean champions as advocates for a sustainable future for the ocean. • People, including children, youth and women involved in awareness raising activities and events • Produce benchmarked criteria towards the nomination of ocean advocates. Department of Environment/ Ministry of Fisheries/Ministry of Youth and Sports/NOPSC 1 0 ND (Number involved disaggregated by sex and age; by Y5) UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development 66 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 Strategy Indicator Lead Reporting frequency (yr) Baseline Target (by year) including legislative/ policy references Output 7.3 Advocate at local, national, regional and global scales for the enhanced sustainability of the ocean and the vital importance of the biodiversity, conservation and ocean-climate nexus and security to Pacific SIDS. • Develop and implement a communication strategy to undertake local, national, regional and international advocacy of the NOP. • Instances of local, national, regional and international opportunities where the linkage between the ocean and climate and / or the vulnerable position of Fiji and other Pacific SIDS is emphasised. • Instances where local, national, regional and international advocacy for oceans and the ocean-climate nexus undertaken by the Fijian Government. Department of Environment/ Ministry of Fisheries/Ministry of Foreign Affairs/ Office of the Prime Minister/ Ministry of Communications/ NOPSC 1 1 0 0 ND (instances when issues emphasised; by Y5) UNFCCC - Ocean Pathway Partnership High Level Ocean Panel Convention on Biological Diversity BBNJ UNCLOS N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 67 Lautoka Wharf – Fiji © Stuart Chape Growing emphasis on economic and infrastructure development strengthens coastal tourism as well as industrial and trade infrastructure. 68 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 6.0 Annex GOAL 1 - COOPERATION STRATEGIES YEAR 1.1 Develop the governance framework of the NOP, including the NOPSC and subsidiary working groups, with defined remits and associated agreed protocols and defined meeting schedule. 1 1.2 Develop, adopt and implement a MEL Plan, from activity to mission level, with verifiable indicators, which reports annually to the NOPSC. 1-10 1.3 Undertake a mapping and analyses of the policies, laws and institutional arrangements to identify the existing information and gaps to inform cross-sector policy reform and strengthen decision making 1-10 1.4 Identify new mechanisms to strengthen institutional alignment and employ additional resources and tools to promote coordination between government including different levels of government, and between government and non-government stakeholders including in resource mobilisation approaches. 2-10 1.5 Implement an annual CRMOT. 1-10 1.6 Review the NOP informed by the MEL after five years and revise / reform aspects of the NOP. 5 GOAL 2 - SUSTAINABILITY STRATEGIES YEAR 2.1 Define and build awareness about the range of ecosystem and climate services provided by healthy, fully functioning marine ecosystems and biodiversity and the associated economic and non-economic benefits. 1-2 2.2 Revitalise and strengthen existing sectoral policies and processes, or establish new approaches, and revise legislations as appropriate to secure or improve service provision and equitability across 100 percent of the ocean under national jurisdiction. 1-2 2.3 Undertake an assessment, including government and stakeholder consultation, on the application of ocean management tools and determine relevant scope and location of application to attain benchmarking criteria. 2-3 2.4 Assemble a variety of nationally applicable area-based management tools and nature-based solutions to attain benchmarking criteria and deliver multiple purposes related to national development. 2-4 2.5 Implement area-based management instruments to support 100 percent sustainable ocean management, including 30 percent of ocean supporting restoration and conservation of biological diversity and ecosystem services. 2-3 2.6 Review 100 percent sustainable ocean management benchmarking progress and re-orient action as required through the NOPSC. 3-10 2.7 Produce sustainable ocean plans and develop capacity to mainstream 100 percent ocean sustainability into all ocean-relevant sectors in terms of capacity, policy, strategies, planning and budget procedures and raise awareness on value of marine ecosystem services to ocean-related sectors and actors 5, 10 N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 | 69 GOAL 3 - SECURITY STRATEGIES YEAR 3.1 Increase national maritime domain awareness among national agencies (such as the Ministry of Fisheries, Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji, Water Police and Fiji Navy), private sector (such as tourism operators and shipping lines) and local communities, as well as relevant regional and international partners and governments. 1-10 3.2 Promote a more coordinated approach through coherent institutional arrangements coupled with enhanced inter-agency information management and work delivery across multidimensional security issues. 2-10 3.3 Expand coordination among agencies to safeguard the ocean from land based including coastal threats through establishment of a protocol and communication procedure through a national focal point. 3-10 3.4 Increase enforcement through surveillance of the ocean, including designated area based management tools and fishing hotspots, and ensure compliance of all marine activities. 3-10 3.5 Strengthen regulations where necessary, including for emergencies and transnational crime and use all available means to legally pursue all infringements. 3-10 GOAL 4 - PEOPLE STRATEGIES YEAR 4.1 Promote, support and expand ocean-related sustainable livelihoods through improved cross sectoral resource management, awareness raising and capacity development, building resilience and diversifying income sources. 2-10 4.2 Assess degree of gender equality and social inclusion of all parts of society engaged in the ocean through economic, traditional, cultural and other forms of users and identify key marginalised groups. 2-3 4.3 Ensure progress to increased equitability of ocean benefits across society, though an improved understanding and monitoring of benefit flows. 2-10 GOAL 5 - DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES YEAR 5.1 Realise and seize emerging ocean opportunities and innovations through development partner’s regional and international collaboration as well as the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science including technical, economic and social dimensions, which are aligned to the NDP and other national documents, especially those that employ nature-based solutions. 2-10 5.2 Enhance opportunities for mitigating or reducing effects on the ocean of new developments and existing activities, including impacts from waterways, coastal and land-based sources. 2- 10 5.3 Mobilise and target resources for sustainable ocean development through national ocean budgeting, promoting blue investment instruments to further capitalise on opportunities to ensure sustainable ocean financing. This includes removing harmful subsidies that contribute to overcapacity, overfishing, and IUU fishing. 2-10 70 | N AT I O N A L O C E A N P O L I C Y • 2 0 2 0 – 2 0 3 0 GOAL 6 - KNOWLEDGE STRATEGIES YEAR 6.1 Through free, prior and informed consent via a clear legal protocol to acquire, document and safeguard traditional, local knowledge and practices related to the ocean, including through ABS agreements for any utilisation of marine genetic resources and associated traditional ecological knowledge. 2– 10 6.2 Strengthen scientific data, interoperability between data systems and knowledge through research partnerships in order to advance understanding and improved management of the ocean, aligning with the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021 – 2030). 2 10 6.3 Underpin ocean-related decision making with the best available scientific evidence, multi-sectoral or trans-disciplinary understanding and traditional, cultural knowledge, language and practice. 2 10 6.4 Develop and implement a universal ocean curriculum in all schools (formal, informal and the non formal sector) 2- 10 6.5 Encourage public awareness of, and access to knowledge on ocean and marine issues and support investment in youth stewardship initiatives. 2 - 10 GOAL 7 - ADVOCACY STRATEGIES YEAR 7.1 Strengthen awareness of the ocean and the NOP and the partnerships needed to achieve the outcomes of the NOP through consistent and holistic communication at all levels 2- 10 7.2 Empower ocean champions as advocates for a sustainable future for the ocean. 2- 10 7.3 Advocate at local, national, regional and global scales for the enhanced sustainability of the ocean and the vital importance of the biodiversity, conservation and ocean-climate nexus and security to Pacific SIDS. 2 - 10 Ministry of Economy Ro Lalabalavu House 370 Victoria Parade Suva P.O Box 2212, Government Buildings, Suva, Fiji Tele: (679) 330 7011, Fax: (679) 330 0834 economyInformation@economy.gov.fj www.economy.gov.fj