An officer from the Environment and Conservation Division, Luke Mae, has urged individuals to take personal responsibility in protecting ecosystems.

Mae made the call during a talk-back show in Honiara last Monday, 3rd March marking World Wildlife Day. 

This year’s theme was “Wildlife Conservation, Financing: Investing in People and the Planet.”

He emphasized the need for citizens to adopt sustainable practices, highlighting the direct link between healthy ecosystems and local economies. 

Mae noted that thriving wildlife populations are essential for sectors like tourism and sustainable fisheries, both of which play a crucial role in the Solomon Islands’ economy.

“When we value our natural resources and treat them as assets, our communities flourish. It is a matter of stewardship—our environment is our livelihood,” he stated.

Mae also stressed the importance of environmental education, warning that without adequate awareness programs in schools and communities, future generations may lack the knowledge and tools necessary to protect their environment.

“We need our children to grow up understanding the importance of biodiversity. It is essential that they learn the value of conservation in their daily lives,” he remarked.

He also highlighted the recent Honiara Summit, where regional leaders convened to address threats to ocean resources. Mae expressed optimism about the potential collaborations emerging from such gatherings to enforce sustainable practices at both local and national levels.

“This is a step forward. Collective efforts will be necessary to tackle the pressing environmental issues we face,” he said.

Concluding his address, Mae delivered a powerful call to action:

“Today, let us commit—not just to celebrating wildlife, but to actively engaging in its preservation. Together, we can be the voice for the voiceless creatures that share our land and waters. It starts in our homes, our schools, and our communities.”

By Jimmy Nolan

Solomon Star, Honiara