Goal 15: Life on land

Human life depends on the earth as much as the ocean for our sustenance and livelihoods. Plant life provides 80 percent of the human diet, and we rely on agriculture as an important economic resources. Forests cover 30 percent of the Earth’s surface, provide vital habitats for millions of species, and important sources for clean air and water, as well as being crucial for combating climate change.

Every year, 13 million hectares of forests are lost, while the persistent degradation of drylands has led to the desertification of 3.6 billion hectares, disproportionately affecting poor communities.

While 15 percent of land is protected, biodiversity is still at risk. Nearly 7,000 species of animals and plants have been illegally traded. Wildlife trafficking not only erodes biodiversity, but creates insecurity, fuels conflict, and feeds corruption.

Urgent action must be taken to reduce the loss of natural habitats and biodiversity which are part of our common heritage and support global food and water security, climate change mitigation and adaptation, and peace and security.

Goal Related News

FNU’s CMNHS Dental team conducts outreach at the Kalabu Village

Fiji National University’s (FNU) College of Medicine, Nursing, and Health Sciences (CMNHS) conducted an oral health screening for the residents of Kalabu Village in Nasinu. The outreach initiative is part of the CMNHS’s campaign in the lead-up to World Oral Health Day, which will be celebrated on March 20. CMNHS’ School of Dentistry and Oral...Read More

FNU launches Sustainability Week campaign

The Fiji National University’s (FNU) College of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry’s (CAFF) initiated its first sustainable apiary during the launching ceremony of the University’s 2023 Sustainability Week campaign. The sustainability campaign, with the theme “Green Investment: The Way Forward,” organised by FNU’s Division of Capital Projects and Infrastructure (DCPI), will be held at different Colleges...Read More

FNU team contributes to international conference

The Fiji National University (FNU) encourages student and staff participation at various community, national and international platforms to further enhance student experience and staff capacity building. The University’s College of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (CAFF) staff and students were recently part of the four-day International Union of Forest Research Organisations (IUFRO) Division 5 Conference in...Read More

Minister encourages villagers to be climate resilient

  The Fiji Government commended the Fiji National University (FNU) for advocating for climate change mitigation and adaptation practices. This statement was made by the Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Honourable Sakiasi Ditoka during his visit to FNU’s Climate-U Participant Action Research Project (PARG) research site at Nadaro Village, Vugalei, Tailevu...Read More

FNU’s College of Engineering, Science and Technology plants mangrove trees

The Fiji National University’s (FNU) College of Engineering, Science and Technology (CEST) has taken a proactive stance in safeguarding the coastal ecosystem by embarking on a significant initiative. The staff, students and members of the community teamed up on a rainy and chilly morning to contribute towards the noble cause of planting 300 mangrove seedlings...Read More

FNU’s FMA launches Lifeboat

The Fiji National University’s (FNU) Fiji Maritime Academy (FMA) strives to enrich students’ educational journey through the provision of relevant equipment to aid in the learning, teaching, and practical experience for students.  The Academy was recently provided with a lifeboat worth USD$80,000 by Swire Shipping. The MV Laucala Chief vessel was commissioned today by the...Read More

FNU launches I-Recycle Hub

The Fiji National University (FNU) has launched its I-Recycle Hubs project in collaboration with Waste Recyclers Pte Ltd (WRFL) and the Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) at the Derrick Campus in Samabula today. The I-Recycle Hub programme, in collaboration with Waste Recyclers Fiji Ltd and Pacific Recycling Foundation, seeks to implement an effective waste management system...Read More

FNU’s CMNHS joins clean-up campaign

The medical professionals at the Fiji National University’s (FNU) College of Medicine, Nursing, and Health Sciences (CMNHS), engaged in the hospital clean-up campaign, contributing to the community and the people, as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility. The college staff teamed up to join the Colonial War Memorial Hospital clean-up campaign last month. CMNHS Dean,...Read More

Turaga – An example of perseverance and determination

In the hustle and bustle of life, there are stories that quietly weave through the chaos, showcasing the indomitable spirit of the human heart. Lorraine Turaga’s journey from the streets of Nadi to her pursuit of success is one such tale that tugs at the heartstrings and inspires us all. The 22-year-old was a familiar...Read More

Not All Heroes Wear Capes, Some Wear Lab Coats

Navneet Singh is now a successful medical laboratory scientist after graduating with a Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (BMLS) from Fiji National University’s (FNU), College of Medicine, Nursing, and Health Sciences (CMNHS) in 2022. Originally, from Lautoka, Singh chose to pursue this career because it was his father’s dream. However, with time, he realised that...Read More

CMNHS Health Symposium to Help Improve Healthcare Education

Fiji National University’s College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences’Health Professional Education Symposium is currently underway at the Holiday Inn. With the theme “Innovate and Rejuvenate: The Transformation of Pacific Health Professional Education”, the symposium aims provide a platform to explore evidence-based strategies, novel approaches, and cutting-edge research that will shape the future of healthcare...Read More

FNU maintains THE ranking, improves overall scores

  The Fiji National University (FNU) has maintained its ranking and improved its overall scores for the 2023 Times Higher Education (THE) ranking. FNU held its overall position at 801-1000 from 1,591 global institutions in 2023; compared to 801-1000 from 1,410 institutions in 2022. The Impact rankings measure how an institution’s research, stewardship, outreach and...Read More

World Oceans Day

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Food Standards Save Lives

World Food Safety Day, observed annually on 7 June, is a global platform to raise awareness about the importance of safe and nutritious food. The theme for World Food Safety Day 2023 is “Food Standards Save Lives,” emphasising the critical role that food standards play in protecting public health and preventing foodborne illnesses. Food standards...Read More

FNU celebrates World Environment Day

  Staff and students at the Fiji National University (FNU) were led by the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba in commemorating World Environment Day at Natabua Campus in Lautoka yesterday. In her opening address, Professor Nabobo-Baba said the celebration aligned well with the   University’s objectives of contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She also...Read More

Concern for environment drives joy to Forestry studies

After observing the rapid deforestation and depletion of forestry resources, Angel Joy decided to play a proactive role in addressing the environmental issue by enrolling at the Fiji National University (FNU). The 18-year-old is currently undertaking studies in the Diploma in Forestry (Level 5) programme at the College of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (CAFF) and...Read More

Sustainable agroforestry system will safeguard and help our environment

There is a need to nurture more stewards who can protect and conserve the natural environment. These sentiments were expressed by the Fiji National University’s (FNU) College of Agriculture and Fisheries and Forestry (CAFF) PhD scholar, Tiraon Taioti. Taioti is pursuing his PhD studies after securing a scholarship under the Australian Centre for International Agricultural...Read More

Forests and sustainable production and consumption

The United Nations observes March 21 as the International Day of Forests (IDOF) to highlight the importance of forests around the world and recap their important role in our daily lives. According to the United Nations, “Forest sustainable management and their use of resources are key to combating climate change and contributing to the prosperity and...Read More

2019 International Day of Forests Theme: “Forests and Education”

The United Nations declared the 21st of March as the International Day of Forests in the year 2012, to raise awareness on the importance of forests in poverty alleviation, sustainable livelihoods, food security, and environment conservation for current and future generations. This day is celebrated across countries through tree planting programs. The theme for International...Read More