VEPA designs, co-ordinates and implements programs to create ownership by the communities of their environment and ecosystems. We engage all social groups within communities in Vava’u and Tonga through media and education. We conduct hands-on projects. We collaborate with National Government programs, local and regional NGO’s, and funding partners.
KFA 1: Biodiversity and Conservation
Programs have a fundamental need. They must ensure ecosystems, habitats, and species are sustained. Conservation is essential. This sustenance is crucial to supply the critical and niche links to livelihoods, resilience, and productivity that humans need.
Oceans and coastal ecosystems: healthy and vibrant oceans are key to livelihoods, resilience and sustainable economic development. Programs that increase conservation and community led solutions include special management areas and marine spatial planning.
Migratory, endangered and endemic species protection: birds, turtles, whales, sharks and tuna are well known key species. However, many of our endemic and endangered species are lesser known but just as important. VEPA aims to restore and protect native and migratory species.
Resilient and adaptive ecosystems: Climate change, natural disasters, and invasive species increase threats to biodiversity. These threats reduce the benefits people receive from healthy and productive ecosystems. Nature-based and community adaptive solutions increase resilience to these threats.
KFA 2: Knowledge exchange and awareness
Traditional and cultural knowledge, data systems, and awareness are key components of the work that VEPA conducts. This includes engaging with schools, communities, and youth groups. VEPA also reaches broader audiences through virtual platforms and social media.
Talatalanoa: informal and open discussion platform on environmental management and traditional activities.
School programs: VEPA supports teachers and engages students on awareness topics related to their school curriculum.
Data driven: balancing cultural knowledge and data driven approaches is critical to ensure the best outcomes towards our mission
Ambassadors (Leaders of Change)
In 2022, we launched a community ambassador program to further the work in communities on environment and livelihood programs. The ambassadors work within their communities identifying environment issues and supporting work to find solutions. Each ambassador is trained across all VEPA’s programs. They participate in field work and school presentations to increase knowledge and sharing within the communities.
KFA 3: Resource Development
Innovation, training, and institutional security are the foundational practices for VEPA. These ensure that the team can provide the best support to programs and communities. As time evolves and to support the younger generations, VEPA aims to engage innovative and technology-driven solutions to programs.
Innovation and technology can sometimes be hard on small islands with limited access. By utilising and balancing community and innovation VEPA hopes to ensure that programs fit to the capability of resources.
Training and development of team, community, and youth are essential activities. These are long-term efforts that support and engage people across various topics.
Accessible materials are created and shared across a variety of platforms. VEPA hopes to expand these materials to teachers, student groups, and virtual platforms. This will ensure and enhance accessibility.
KFA 4: Partnerships, policies and national support
National government plays a key role in the mission and goals of VEPA. International and regional organisations, philanthropies, and research institutions also contribute significantly. Strong partnerships and program development ensure that partners are engaged in all aspects of VEPA’s programs.
VEPA support and engages with the national Government on the development of policies, legislation and management plans. Sharing data, knowledge and systems are key to these ongoing partnerships
VEPA supports student programs including internships to Tongan and overseas students. These programs help to encourage and engage the team through different learning systems and programs
International partnerships are key to VEPA. Programs and opportunities within Tonga receive support from a wide range of partner organizations, individuals, programs, and governments.
Thank you we aren’t VEPA without you!
Vava'u Environmental Protection Association (VEPA) 