by Ednal Palmer
As the world marked World Environment Day last week in cities and urban centres, the Solomon Islands Rangers Association (SIRA) took it a notch down to reflect the goal to bolster community support in efforts to protect the environment.
In collaboration with Kiu Community High School and local leaders, SIRA organised a vibrant community-led clean-up and mangrove planting ceremony at Kiu Village, West Are’are.
The event began with a symbolic handover of $1,000 from SIRA to Kiu School Principal David Kausimae, who announced the funds will support an upcoming student speech competition on environmental issues.
“This donation marks the beginning of a valuable partnership with SIRA,” said Principal Kausimae. “It will empower students to think critically and speak passionately about protecting their environment.”
SIRA Program Manager Edward Huitarau praised the initiative, highlighting its role in fostering environmental awareness among youth and reinforcing community involvement in conservation.
“Community-driven initiatives like this are essential to promoting long-term environmental stewardship in the Solomon Islands,” said Huitarau. “By engaging students and elders alike, we strengthen our collective responsibility to care for the land and sea.”
He added that engaging local communities fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility, empowering individuals to contribute to sustainable practices and enhance the effectiveness of global efforts.
“Local involvement is crucial, as it not only amplifies the impact of global initiatives but also cultivates a culture of sustainability that can instigate long-term change.
Huitarau further added that schools play a pivotal role in shaping the values and beliefs of future generations, making them essential in fostering a culture of sustainability and encouraging students to engage with climate change education.
The day’s activities saw students, church and community elders, and members from seven local conservation associations take to the village to collect plastic waste in support of this year’s World Environment Day key message: “Beat Plastic Pollution.”
The clean-up effort concluded with the planting of mangroves along the village’s shoreline—a practical action to enhance coastal protection and restore local ecosystems.
Supported by the European Forest Institute (EFI), the event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of grassroots action in addressing global environmental challenges.
About World Environment Day
World Environment Day is observed every June 5 across more than 150 countries. Established by the United Nations in 1972, it is the world’s largest platform for environmental awareness. This year’s theme, “Beat Plastic Pollution,” urges individuals and communities to take bold steps toward sustainable practices and reducing plastic waste.