Source: Earth Sciences New Zealand
Earth Sciences New Zealand and the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), marking a significant milestone in their decades-long collaboration on environmental science and resilience in the Pacific.
This first formal agreement between the two organisations establishes a framework for deeper cooperation in climate science and resilience, ecosystem protection, environmental monitoring, and integration of Indigenous knowledge in natural resource management-all areas central to the region’s priorities and future under Pacific Island Forum Leaders’ 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
The MOU enables joint planning and execution of projects, capacity-building initiatives, and shared research efforts that will support sustainable development and environmental resilience across Pacific Island countries and territories.
SPREP Director General Mr. Sefanaia Nawadra welcomed the agreement, noting that “This recommitment of our existing partnership, which has stood the test of time and covers the whole area of the work that SPREP does, has untapped potential which will allow us to venture into newer areas of joint work. The timing is perfect for both institutions, seeing SPREP has established the new Climate Science and Information Programme, whilst Earth Sciences New Zealand has gone through a restructure – strategic moves which strengthen confidence among our partners and the countries we serve. “
“Formalising our partnership with SPREP allows us to better align our strengths and resources to meet the urgent environmental challenges facing the Pacific,” said Connon Andrews, Manager of the Pacific Centre at Earth Sciences NZ. “Together, we can deliver more coordinated, impactful science and services to support Pacific communities.”
The MOU outlines mechanisms for joint work planning, regular strategic meetings, and collaboration across a wide range of activity areas, including regional initiatives such as the Weather Ready Pacific programme, the Pacific Climate Change Science and Services Research Roadmap, and the Pacific Islands Regional Climate Centre Network, and the Pacific Regional Invasive Species Management Support Service.
The MOU will guide collaboration over the next five years, with a shared commitment to integrity, sustainability, and the values of both organisations.
