ENVIRONMENT

Dubai Expo City, December 1, 2023 In an impactful speech at the 28th Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), His Majesty King Tupou VI of the Kingdom of Tonga not only captivated his audience but also underscored the urgent need for global […]

In a striking development ahead of this year’s UN climate summit, Cop28 President Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber has stirred controversy by questioning the scientific consensus on the role of fossil fuels in global warming. His remarks, made during a video meeting with former Irish President Mary Robinson and later released by The Guardian and the

Preparations in Full Swing for Global Climate Conference in the United Arab Emirates Tonga’s delegation convened at the Fa’onelua Convention Centre for a crucial meeting in anticipation of the upcoming COP28, the Conference of the Parties organized by the United Nations Framework Convention for Climate Change. The event, hosted by the Ministry of Meteorology, Energy,

In a congratulatory gesture, Hon. Hu’akavameiliku, Prime Minister of Tonga, extended warm wishes to Dr. Sivendra Michael on his recent appointment as the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change. Dr. Michael, previously deployed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) as a Disaster Risk Reduction Advisor, played a pivotal role in

Tonga is preparing for an extended and potentially severe tropical cyclone season in 2023/2024, as El Nino conditions cast a shadow of uncertainty over the region’s weather patterns. Meteorological authorities have issued crucial warnings, urging residents and authorities to be vigilant in the coming months. Cyclone Impact on the Horizon Tonga can expect up to

Ko e talu ‘a e kamata ‘a e ngaahi polokalama ki he ivi fakanatula mei Natula ‘o hange ko e La’aa (Solar Energy) mo e Havili (Wind mill) mo e ‘ikai pe lava ‘o fakapapau’i mai ki he kakai ‘o e fonua ‘a e ‘uhinga totonu pea hangee kuo takihala’i ‘a e kakai ‘o e

The humble breadfruit is nutritious and resilient — and grows for 50 years at a stretch. Since reaching a low point in 2015, the number of people lacking regular access to nutritious food has been rising worldwide. The problem has been exacerbated by factors including the ongoing repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as

In a significant step towards combating climate change, Pacific Island nations have successfully advocated for a new emissions reduction plan at the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), the UN’s shipping specialist agency. This strategy aims to align with the goals of the Paris Agreement, despite global resistance. Under increasing pressure to address the carbon footprint of

Tonga, an enchanting kingdom, is taking significant steps towards adopting renewable energy. With a distinct advantage in its clean technology energy market, Tonga aims to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and achieve greater energy autonomy. The country possesses abundant solar, wind, and geothermal resources, positioning it as a potential leader in Pacific renewable energy

US lawyer Lori Osmundsen has emphasized the need for Tonga to fully understand the risks and liabilities associated with deep sea mining (DSM) before making any decisions. Osmundsen, who authored a report commissioned by the Civil Society Forum of Tonga, highlights the importance of Tonga’s awareness of its national and international legal obligations. The report,