Environment Media Solomon Islands

21/08/2025

SAFE PROJECT WORKSHOP BEGINS | A strategic planning workshop for the SAFE Project has started in Honiara to strengthen biodiversity conservation and sustainable development in the Solomon Islands. The project, supported by the Solomon Islands Government and UNDP, focuses on protecting nature in five provinces from invasive species and unsustainable land use. The workshop brings together government officials and partners to review progress and plan future actions. Dr. Chris Vehe from the Ministry of Environment said the meeting is a chance to “think critically and strategically” and align the project with national goals. The SAFE Project runs until 2029 and aims to protect ecosystems, build local capacity, and empower communities. The workshop will end on 22 August 2025.

Read More Here: https://environment.islesmedia.net/solomon-islands-safe-project-launches-strategic-planning-workshop-to-strengthen-biodiversity-conservation-and-sustainable-development/

21/08/2025

UNDERSEA BOMB AWAITS REMOVAL | A large U.S. 325-pound World War II bomb was recently found underwater near Seghe in Western Province, Solomon Islands. The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Department (EODD) of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force confirmed the bomb is still attached to a sunken plane and contains over 100 kilograms of explosives. Local divers reported the discovery. The EODD is now planning a safe removal and destruction of the bomb to protect the environment and the historical wreck. EODD officers spent four days locating the bomb, showing their growing skills in underwater operations.

Read More Here: https://environment.islesmedia.net/bomb-discovered-undersea-and-yet-to-be-safely-removed-for-destruction/

21/08/2025

JICA OKINAWA STRENGTHENS PARTNERSHIP | Former participants from the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources met with a visiting JICA Okinawa team to review coastal fisheries cooperation. The visit aims to assess sustainable fisheries management and follow up on former participants' activities. JICA Okinawa has trained 11 officers since 2006, focusing on sustainable fishery use and community livelihoods.

Read More Here: https://environment.islesmedia.net/jica-okinawa-strengthens-fisheries-partnership/

21/08/2025

STRONG WIND WARNING ISSUED | The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service issued Strong Wind Warning Number Eight at 7:00 AM on Thursday, August 21, 2025. The warning covers most Solomon Islands waters due to persistent easterly trade winds. Today’s statement said, “Expect southeast winds to reach 20 to 25 knots over most waters.” Seas will be moderate to rough with swells up to 2.5 meters. People are advised to “take precautionary measures” as strong winds may affect lives and property. Sea travelers are urged to “consider safety actions” because dangerous waves pose risks to small boats. The next warning will be released at 4:00 PM today.

Source: Solomon Islands Meteorological Service

20/08/2025

STRONG WIND WARNING ISSUED | The Solomon Islands Meteorological Service has issued Strong Wind Warning Number Seven (7) at 4:00 PM on Wednesday, 20th August 2025. Southeast winds of 20 to 25 knots are expected over most waters. Seas will be moderate to rough, with swells up to 2.5 meters. People are advised to take precautions as strong winds could affect lives and property. Sea travelers, especially those in small boats, should be cautious due to dangerous wave conditions. A new update will be released at 7:00 AM tomorrow.

Source: Solomon Islands Meteorological Service

20/08/2025

WEEKLY ENVIRONMENT NEWS HIGHLIGHTS | Welcome to the Environment Media News Desk. This week, we bring you the top stories about environmental issues in the Solomon Islands and the Pacific region. Learn about the latest events, new policies, and important news affecting nature, climate, and communities across the islands. Stay informed and up to date.

20/08/2025

TIMBER INDUSTRY GAINS SUPPORT | Australia and New Zealand are helping the Solomon Islands move towards a more sustainable timber industry. At the Sawn Timber Knowledge Forum held on August 13 in Honiara, local timber exporters and the Solomon Islands Timber Processors and Exporters Association (SITPEA) celebrated progress toward international certification. This certification helps protect forests, create jobs, and allows timber producers to sell to high-value markets overseas. Three SITPEA members were recently audited under international standards, with positive early feedback. The forum also strengthened partnerships and showed a strong commitment to improving the timber industry for Solomon Islands’ future.

Read More Here: https://environment.islesmedia.net/australia-and-new-zealand-supporting-progress-towards-solomon-islands-timber-industry-sustainability/

20/08/2025

20/08/2025

MID ENSURES PROJECT QUALITY | The Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) is collaborating with local contractors to ensure safety and quality standards at Friendship Hall for upgrades ahead of the Pacific Islands Leaders meeting. The project includes testing concrete, upgrading power systems, and implementing strict quality checks, particularly following the National Building Standard Bill.

Read More Here: https://environment.islesmedia.net/mids-laboratory-ensures-compliance-and-safety-in-friendship-hall-improvement-projects/

20/08/2025

WORKSHOP STRENGTHENS AGRICULTURE PLANNING | The Solomon Islands Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) has launched a three-day Transformation Pathways Training Workshop to help plan for a stronger, more sustainable agriculture and food system. The workshop, part of the Future Kaikai Project, focuses on using research and evidence to make better decisions for farming and rural life. It aims to identify crops and animals for future conditions.

Read More Here:
https://environment.islesmedia.net/baete-opens-transformation-pathways-training-workshop/

20/08/2025

YOUTH BOOST AGRICULTURE SECTOR | The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) is providing funding to young YECSI members starting agribusinesses in the cocoa and copra industries through the Cocoa and Coconut Revolving Fund (CCRF). The first three recipients received grants ranging from $50,000 to $150,000. MAL encourages wise use of funds for business growth and strengthening agriculture in Solomon Islands.

Read More Here: https://environment.islesmedia.net/mal-and-yecsi-partner-to-empower-young-entrepreneurs-in-cocoa-and-copra-sector/

20/08/2025

TRIBES SUPPORT BINA PROJECT |Tribes in the Bina region of Malaita Province are helping with planning for the Bina Harbour Tuna Processing Plant Project. They are sharing their land stories, history, and culture through a system called Indigenous Terrain Mapping (ITM). The Pacific Horizons Consultancy Group is leading the mapping work, speaking with tribal leaders and landowners about their connection to land, water, and community traditions. Meetings have been held in Honiara, Bina, and West Kwaio. Leaders from the Lafari and Rafea Houses of Chiefs support the mapping process.

Read More Here: https://environment.islesmedia.net/communities-help-shape-bina-harbour-project/