The Solomon Islands lack sufficient data for effective ocean management, despite possessing a vast 1.5 million square kilometers of Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), according to Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Peter Shanel Agovaka. Speaking during a reception celebrating the Solomon Islands’ unique biodiversity and the launch of Pristine Seas’ research expedition at Wate Jetty, Point Cruz yesterday, Minister Shanel highlighted the need for more scientific research.
The expedition, a collaboration between Pristine Seas, the Solomon Islands government, and other key stakeholders, aims to address this data gap. The research vessel Argo, carrying a team of 15 marine scientists, ornithologists, filmmakers, and explorers, will explore three key sites across the Solomon Islands: Marau in Southeast Guadalcanal, the Three Sisters Islands in Makira-Ulawa Province, and several islands in Temotu Province and Malaita province.
This months-long expedition is a partnership involving National Geographic’s Pristine Seas, the Solomon Islands government, Ocean12, and the Ministry of Education and Human Resources Development (MEHRD). The goal is to use advanced technology to study the country’s marine ecosystems and foster ocean conservation. Minister Shanel acknowledged the challenges posed by the country’s lack of scientific investment, particularly in managing its rich marine biodiversity, which is of great ecological and economic importance.
