BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The MELANOB Project will give Solomon Islands a stronger voice in regional and global discussions on the sustainable management of forestry resources.
Director of the Solomon Islands National Herbarium and Botanical Gardens, Ministry of Forestry and Research, Mr Myknee Sirikolo, said the project would be based on verified scientific data and utilise modern technologies and methodologies.
He said the initiative would involve the use of advanced equipment to measure trees, identify species, and collect critical data for documentation and research purposes.
“This information will enable Melanesian governments to make informed decisions in crafting regulations, legislation, and policies for the sustainable management of forestry resources,” Mr Sirikolo said.
He pointed out that the forestry sector is under increasing threat due to the impacts of climate change.
“This project will comprehensively address current challenges through the collection of accurate, up-to-date data. The findings will directly benefit the country, government, and people in managing our forestry sector,” he said.
Mr Sirikolo said the project is a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Forestry, Solomon Islands National University (SINU), and regional partners.
He added that the initiative would also provide educational opportunities for students and young researchers to study biodiversity, ecosystems, and the impacts of both human activity and natural climate processes.
“They will have access to first-hand data, which will help develop innovative, science-based ideas. The project will integrate both modern science and traditional ecological knowledge to ensure sustainable management of our natural resources,” Mr Sirikolo said.
He acknowledged that while previous research efforts had been made, many had faltered due to changing government policies.
“Research in the Ministry of Forestry has been weak in recent times. This project is the first of its kind to establish strong partnerships among the five Melanesian countries, promoting regional collaboration in the forestry sector,” he said.
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