Soso moving the green province initiative forward

Caption:  Eastern Highlands Governor Julie Soso

By MATTHEW VARI

Sunday, March 1, 2015 (Sunday Chronicle, PNG)

WITH its declaration of being a green province in the country- Eastern Highlands Governor Julie Soso announced various plans her government was taking in living up to the proclaimed title of going green, during the signing of an MoU between the province and the Office of Climate Change to establish solar farms throughout the province.

The governor emphasized the need to adopt clean technology method in the agricultural sector which the province is much reliant on and in other areas of reforestation, conservation, green development.

“We must adopt clean technology in the agriculture sector especially in the farming methodology and designs.”

“Such technologies can boost organic production and simultaneously enhance ecological efficiency via the bottom-up approach.”

“Out institutions must design technologies that are economically and ecologically efficient.”

She also pointed out her government’s reforestation plans that have seen them embark on the planting of 1 million trees per year beginning 2015.

“Community forest nurseries will be developed while schools will also develop school based forest nurseries.”

“We must develop our towns and cities to greenery through advanced urban planning and design where building construction, waterways, sewerage systems, communication and electricity, walkways and parks and gardens are developed with eco-standards.”

“The public transport system must be eco-friendly and efficient thereby reducing pedestrian congestion and carbon emissions.”

Soso added that without losing focus, emphasis would be put on rural infrastructure developments and conservation programs that will see economic benefits for the people through carbon crediting.

“I am glad that anMoU has been signed with Wildlife Conservation Society for a biodiversity study within the UN REDD+ project zone that ranges from Daulo Pass to Mount Gahavisuka.”

“I am also aware of the existence of other NGO conservation development partners within the province- we will continue to consolidate our efforts in partnership to develop this province.”

She said that the biodiversity study is expected to add value to the REDD+ zone, adding value also to the tourism sector in the province.

“As we continue to drive for green development through nature conservation, preservation of cultural heritage and its diversity, preservation of flora and fauna, wildlife management and biodiversity conservation, we will in turn appreciate the benefits through eco-tourism.”

“Such environment services complemented by sound infrastructure development and advanced urban planning will lay a formidable foundation for the tourism industry.”