Fiji National University launches Sustainability Plan 2021-2026

17th November 2021

We are glad to see that EAUC member, The Fiji National University recognises the adverse impacts of climate change experienced locally and globally. Our vulnerability to climate emergency is a wake-up call for all of us to commit to take bold climate change mitigation and adaptive actions. Therefore, Fiji National University declares a climate emergency and is committed to creating a more inclusive and resilient economy by reducing carbon emissions to restore our natural and built environment and people. Declaring a climate emergency thus acknowledges the concerns of many who are worried about what the future holds for them.

The earth’s temperature is rising. Floods, hurricanes, heat waves, sea-level rise and extreme weather conditions are increasing, displacing people causing havoc to biodiversity and natural systems. These are driving species extinction, destroying ecosystems, forcing people to relocate, and interrupting global food production.

Small Island Developing States (SIDS) like Fiji has experienced massive impacts of Climate Change, with the likes of frequent high-intensity cyclones impacting the country and the rising sea levels requiring relocation of entire community.
The United Nations International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report warns that we need to keep global warming as close to 1.5 degrees Celsius as possible to avoid devastation to our environment, economies, and communities.

In support of Fiji’s contribution to the Paris Agreement, Fiji National University, as a dual-sector University with a strong hold in TVET and Higher Education, is committed to playing a key role in contributing to the global target.
In pursuit of this declaration, FNU will:
 

• Embed environmental sustainability in our procurement policies, plans for new buildings and refurbishment of the existing estate, with an explicit focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, harnessing renewable energy, and maximising climate resilience and business continuity.
• Impart knowledge and establish innovative solutions on climate change adaptation and mitigation through our education and research, policies, and sustainable budgeting.
• Utilise the FNU estate as a ‘living laboratory’ to test, develop and refine sustainability initiatives, preparing our students for success in the blue/green economy; and helping the University become a role model for sustainability.
• Work with partners at national, international, and supranational levels to secure funding for applied research and practical interventions in support of climate.

It is necessary to address and mitigate the climate emergency for global greener prosperity without any further delay. Fiji National University is ambitious to contribute to this transformation by achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Find out more here.