Sir Paulias said in a statement that the discovery of chemical compounds and drugs with potential to cure major illnesses, including HIV/AIDS and cancer, would be hampered.
He said not much of the scientific research was done on the huge potential PNG had in its diverse flora, fauna and marine biology.
His concern was supported by a prominent scientist, pharmacologist and associate professor Teatulohi Matainaho and senior lecturer Dr Basil Marasinghe of the University of Papua New Guinea.
The two scientists feared the potential PNG had in discovering indigenous plants and marine life within its vast natural resources was threatened due to deforestation and deep sea mining.
According to Prof Matainaho, while PNG has 01 per cent of the world’s landmass, the country boasts 7 to 8 per cent of the global biodiversity. He said this gave PNG an opportunity to discover and identify plants and marine species that could be used to provide cures for ailments such as AIDS, cancer and TB.
