Biodiversity Conservation
PNG is one of the most culturally and biologically rich and diverse countries in the world. It is said that PNG has over 5% of the world’s biodiversity in less than 1% of the world’s total land area. PNG is recognized as one of only 17 megadiverse countries globally and houses some of the most
flora and fauna in the world. This island nation has the 3rd largest rainforest in the world. Some of the endemic wildlife include carnivorous mice, tree-climbing kangaroos, and giant rats. A large bird population of 730 identified species lives here, as well as over 320 identified amphibian species and around 300 identified reptile species.
The LGP team is unmatched in our experience of identifying, measuring, and conserving flora and fauna throughout the multiple ecosystems of PNG. We will build on this knowledge to ensure the LGP is using the most up-to-date and appropriate techniques, such as participatory land- and marine-use plans, calculation of sustainable hunting thresholds, evidence-based
reforestation, and designs of community livelihood programs.
Above all, this is a biodiversity conservation program to protect the natural systems that humans rely on. Through all activities, we will keep in mind and practice the value and importance of intact ecosystems for human
health and quality of life, and seek to understand the natural system to create interventions and activities that not only avoid negative impacts, but actually work with nature to achieve their outputs and outcomes. Impacts of human actions will be considered for every activity, from the rejection of balloon decorations, the slow decline in abundance of a traditional plant used in dying fabrics in a livelihood, or the extreme care in using rare feathers at events, we will mentor our counterparts to consider examining both the source and waste streams of activities. Once practices are understood for humans co-existing well with their ecosystems in these landscapes, we will work toward institutionalizing good practices into local and national institutions, where stakeholders have access to learn and
adapt them.
