Protecting Our Oceans is Protecting Our Future — UNDP at MOS26

As leaders from across Melanesia gather in Port Moresby for the 2026 Melanesian Ocean Summit, one message is clear: protecting our oceans is protecting our future. 🌊

What if the Pacific's strongest climate defence isn't concrete infrastructure, but its spectacular coral reefs? 🪸

In their new op-ed, the Resident Representative of UNDP Papua New Guinea, Mr. Nicholas Booth, and the Resident Representative of UNDP's Pacific Office in Fiji, Ms. Munkhtuya Altangerel, highlight how nature-based solutions implemented through UNDP's programming are already delivering real climate resilience in the Pacific. 🌏

The Pacific's coral reefs are not just biodiversity treasures — they are critical natural infrastructure that protect coastal communities from rising seas, storm surges and climate volatility.

The op-ed underscores how MOS26 places the spotlight on Papua New Guinea's Blue Economy and the role of nature-based solutions in advancing both SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 14 (Life Below Water).

Coral Triangle Day — observed on 9 June — continues to amplify the call for sustained investment in marine ecosystems across Melanesia and the wider Pacific.

Source: UNDP Papua New Guinea — LinkedIn