A Landmark Step for the Voluntary Carbon Industry in Fiji
A Landmark Step for the Voluntary Carbon Industry in Fiji
The First Nations Fiji Resources Foundation has declared its first extensive community consultations with the Aboriginal Carbon Foundation a resounding success. More than 500 participants representing mataqalis from the 14 provinces throughout Fiji attended the week-long consultations held across four communities—Suva, Yaroi, Rakiraki, and Lautoka—demonstrating strong community support for the opportunity to shape the future of the voluntary carbon industry in Fiji.
A key outcome of the consultations was the initiation of a Public Registry, a crucial transparency tool for all carbon projects. Set to launch in late 2025, the Registry will record Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC), reinforcing integrity and accountability in the carbon sector.
Traditional Landowners, Elders, Chiefs, community members, and government representatives gathered to discuss a transformative First Nations-led voluntary carbon industry initiative. The overwhelmingly positive turnout underscored the enthusiasm for self-determination and economic empowerment through sustainable carbon farming.
“These consultations have been an incredible success, with deep and meaningful engagement from our communities,” said Dr Akanasi, Chairperson of the First Nations Fiji Resources Foundation. “The strong participation reaffirms the commitment of our people to sustainable land stewardship and ensures that this initiative remains deeply rooted in our cultural values and aspirations.”
Fiji is making history with the development of its first domestic carbon farming scheme. While international carbon farming projects has existed in Fiji for over a decade, this initiative represents a significant shift towards First Nations leadership in environmental and economic sustainability.
The consultations provided a platform for Traditional Landowners to voice their priorities, ensuring that carbon farming aligns with cultural, social and environmental core values.
“This is an exciting step forward for First Nations leadership in the South Pacific,” said Mr Rowan Foley, CEO of the Aboriginal Carbon Foundation. “The enthusiasm and engagement we’ve seen in these consultations highlight the power of community-driven solutions. By placing Traditional Landowners at the forefront of carbon farming, we are ensuring long-term sustainability and economic independence.”
The success of these consultations was made possible through strong collaboration with the Fijian Government, whose support is warmly welcomed. The commitment to creating a robust and transparent carbon farming framework represents a significant milestone for First Nations-led sustainability in the South Pacific.
The Aboriginal Carbon Foundation and the First Nations Fiji Resources Foundation celebrate this achievement and look forward to further strengthening First Nations leadership in carbon farming and environmental stewardship.
Download a copy of the AbCF Media Release regarding this here. For more information or to arrange interviews, please contact: Mahala Strohfeldt, AbCF Communications Coordinator. Mobile 0412 828 611 or mahala@abcfoundation.org.au OR Rowan Foley, AbCF CEO. Mobile 0427 013 318 or rowan@abcfoundation.org.au
