7 Jul 2014

Solomon Islands to restrict new logging licences

8:52 am on 7 July 2014

The Prime Minister of Solomon Islands has announced that the government will restrict new logging licences.

Logging operations in Solomon Islands

Logging operations in Solomon Islands Photo: Supplied

Gordon Darcy Lilo made the statement during the second Oceania Leaders' Summit in New Caledonia last week.

He says the country used to rely heavily on logging and timber exports for its foreign revenue earnings, but significant deforestation means that must change if the country is to protect its environment.

Mr Lilo says the country has adopted sustainable forestry pactices that focus on the planting of new seedlings in areas that have been heavily logged and logging companies will now have to comply with international best practice.