KOROR (Palau Horizon) — The 200 delegates that participated in the 21st Annual Pacific Islands Environment Conference in Palau drafted recommendations and action plans aimed at protecting the environment through the merger of traditional ways and modern technology.
The conference began Monday last week and was attended by Palau’s high ranking government officials led by President Tommy Remengesau.
Sessions were held on the Compact Road and conservation areas, water and wastewater programs, and recycling.
During the Palau Compact Road focus session, the progress made on the project was discussed, including environmental issues such as erosion control, dredging and soil disposal—how they are being addressed and how the project’s impact is being monitored.
The session on conservation areas centered on management plans for conservation areas.
The session on wastewater issues brought together experts that discussed appropriate water and wastewater technologies for island environments.
The recycling session examined the challenges faced by solid waste recycling efforts in the islands and how to overcome those obstacles.
The delegates were scheduled to visit Melekeok but it was canceled due to bad weather.
After the sessions, the participants came up with recommendations and action plans on the environment.
In his speech, Remengesau warmly welcomed Honolulu Mayor Jeremy Harris and his wife. He said Harris has been a friend of Palau and is committed to protecting the environment.
Remengesau at the same time said Palau believes that traditional conservation methods are also crucial to its long-term sustainable development.
