A newly established environmental organisation, the Samoa Conservation Society, says it wants communities educated and involved in protecting Samoa's biodiversity.
The Samoa Conservation Society aims to protect species that are unique to Samoa, and raise awareness of threats, including over-harvesting, pollution and climate change.
Its president, Tofilau Tepa Suaesi, says it wants to target the highest priority species and habitats.
He says better understanding and research is needed.
"What is the extent of their survival in the face of development and climate change, and how we can fill the potential of communities to be able to preserve these habitats and unique speices in the face of their own needs to develop and grow their communities."
Tofilau Tepa Suaesi says they will be talking to communities who want to promote the conservation of their areas, or to enhance projects they have already started.
