Solomon Islands Overview

Solomon Islands - Coral Reef Rescue Project - Team

Focal National Government Ministry: Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, Disaster Management and Meteorology (MECDM)

National Technical Facilitator: Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS)

• WCS Country Director: Alec Hughes
• WCS Program Manager: Christian Tutui Manepolo

Solomon Islands - Key Focal Areas

Solomon Islands Coral Reefs

The Solomon Islands boast some of the highest marine biodiversity globally, second only to Indonesia’s Raja Ampat, with extensive coral reefs and mangrove forests providing crucial ecological and economic benefits. Nearly all of the population relies on these ecosystems for livelihoods, with coral reef and fish-related industries contributing significantly to the GDP. However, challenges such as overfishing, climate change, and gender inequality in coastal communities threaten these vital resources. 

Different provinces within the Solomon Islands face unique challenges and opportunities regarding marine conservation. Isabel Province, known for its resilient reefs and strong resource management, contrasts with Malaita, where high population density drives overfishing and environmental degradation. Central Island Province, rich in seagrass meadows and mangroves, grapples with overfishing and the need for sustainable development policies. Temotu Province, though remote, showcases exceptional coral diversity and presents an opportunity for climate refuge efforts. Each province’s distinct ecological and social contexts highlight the need for tailored conservation strategies, supported by initiatives like the Coral Reef Rescue Project.

Latest Updates from Solomon Islands 

• CRR Project Reaches Temotu Province
• WIOMSA and PIOC Conferences - Engagement and Promotional Events in Kenya and Solomon Islands for the Coral Reef Rescue Project
• Celebrating the Resilient Voyage of Our Women Leaders
• Building Community Harmony through Stewardship
• Fiji and Solomon Islands Collaborate on Communication Strategy for Coral Reef Rescue
• Coral Reef Rescue: Ensuring Resilience for Solomon Islands’ Vital Coral Reefs and Communities
• Premier of Malaita Province Supports Coral Reef Rescue Initiative, Solomon Islands
• WCS Solomon Islands Coral Reef Rescue inception workshop a success

New Resources 

The GEF -7 Coral Reef Rescue Project has released free online courses and resources on coral reef conservation. These include;

• Coral Reefs: Introduction to Challenges and Solutions  
• Coral Reefs: Data and Monitoring 
• Coral Reefs: Sustainable Blue Economy
• Coral Reefs: Climate Resilient Communities

Alongside these courses, a new online decision support tool was created Coral Reef Rescue Portal. This brings together over 70 existing coral reef datasets and resources in one easy-to-use, searchable platform.

Relevant Documents

• Solomon Islands National Ocean Policy
• Solomon Islands National Fisheries Policy 2019-2029
• Coral Reef Conservation in Solomon Islands: Overcoming the Policy Implementation Gap
• National Gender Equality and Women's Development Policy 2016-2020
• Coral Triangle Initiative on Coral Reefs, Fisheries and Food Security Regional Plan of Action
• Ridges to Reefs Conservation Plan for Choiseul Province, Solomon Islands

*Note: For more detailed information about the Solomon Islands and their involvement in the Coral Reef Rescue Project, please see the Project Document.