The United Nations has marked World Environment Day in Papua New Guinea by urging people to support further protection of the country's unique environment.
The UN's resident representative in PNG, Roy Trivedy, said although the country makes up less than one percent of global land area, it contains more than seven percent of the world's biodiversity.
Mr Trivedy said while PNG had ratified the UN Convention on Biological Diversity and had committed to protecting 17 percent of land and 10 percent of marine areas by 2020, less than five percent of the country is currently protected.
Frieda River heading north to join the Sepik River. Photo: Facebook - SEPIK Capital, PNG - Wewak Urban Local Level Government
He said protection was inadequate in the face of deforestation and population growth, with PNG's population predicted to more than double from 7 million to 17 million by 2040.
The UN in conjunction with the Conservation and Environment Protection Authority (CEPA) has prepared a Protected Areas Bill to establish and manage a system of National Protected Areas.
These include national parks, marine sanctuaries and national heritage areas to help preserve about 19,000 unique plants and thousands of species of animals.
"This network of protected areas will enable the country to protect its natural resources in a way that will promote economic growth through creation of opportunities like eco-tourism and jobs as well as safeguarding resources for future generations," Mr Trivedy said.
