Mainstreaming Environmental Considerations and Traditional Knowledge and Practices into Policies and Programs for the Mele Catchment Area in Vanuatu

Abstract

This case study in Vanuatu has targeted the review of legislative, administrative, and traditional/community information processes for mainstreaming the environment into development processes. Lessons learned, constraints, and positive contributions for integration of economic, social, and environmental parameters for sustainable development are highlighted. The Vanuatu Case Study Team worked in association, with the approval of the government and stakeholders, with the Tagabe River Catchment Management Initiative, a stakeholder group formed to address catchment issues within the greater Mele Catchment. The objectives of the case study are to (i) identify the shortcomings and positive aspects identified in the review of legislative, administrative, and traditional/community information processes that act as barriers or potential strengths to mainstreaming; and to (ii) identify actions that can be taken to stimulate the evolution of current planning practices to more effectively manage the environmental, sociocultural, and economic needs of the community.