Ocean acidification sensors installed in Suva Harbour observing water acidity and temperature

Ocean acidification sensors have been installed in the Suva Harbour providing real‑time observations of coastal water acidity and temperature.

This was highlighted by British High Commissioner to Fiji, Melanie Hopkins who adds that this will enable Fiji to conduct surveys that will make assessments on how much acidification is in Fiji waters and help measure temperature of the oceans to see how this affects the marine life and how Fiji can mitigate these changes. 

This was made possible through the Commonwealth Marine Economies Programme that is being funded by the UK.

Hopkins adds through the preparation and implementation of Maritime Economy Plans, the programme will enable the development of sustainable and growing maritime economies in Fiji that create jobs, drive national economic growth, reduce poverty, ensure food security and build resilience by mitigating any associated environmental and economic risks.

The High Commissioner says that the programme can help Fiji boost trade and tourism by attracting more and larger ships and providing the data needed to develop port and coastal infrastructure adding that it can also improve food supply to people, and export surplus fish, through habitat mapping and water quality and pollution impact assessments.