The Cabinet has approved the declaration of the Niuas as organic islands, the first in the country, aiming to eliminate the use of harmful chemicals and pesticides.
Minister for Agriculture, Hon. Dr. Siosiua Halavatau, expressed concern during a government press conference last Friday over the excessive use of “poison, chemicals, pesticides” and emphasized the need to “develop a system to solve problem.”
The initiative involves collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC), the Tonga National Youth Congress (TNYC), and Live & Learn Environmental Education.
Halavatau said a significant aspect of the plan is the revitalization of the Ministry’s laboratory, with an investment of half a million paʻanga funded by the New Zealand government, dedicated to testing pollutants, analyzing food, and detecting pesticide residues.
“We will consult and engage the residents as we develop the organic standards,” Halavatau said. He added that legislation will follow but the initiative will kick off from now.
Minister for MEIDECC, Hon. Dr. Taniela Fusimalohi said that testing of water samples collected from various sites being inspected around the country is expected to be done at the ministry’s restored lab.
Following the Niuas, islands in Vava’u and Ha’apai are also slated for organic designation marking the government’s venture into establishing organic islands.
This move aligns with a broader Pacific trend. In 2013, Fiji’s Cicia Island was declared organic, becoming the first in the Pacific to do so. Similarly, Vanuatu’s Emae Island achieved organic status in 2016, reflecting a regional shift towards sustainable agriculture.
Tonga’s commitment to organic practices not only aims to protect the environment but also to promote healthier agricultural methods, setting a precedent for other Pacific nations.
