After a week of intensive scientific assessment across Tokelau’s three atolls, a Conservation International-led expedition team has completed their research mission, documenting encouraging signs of ecosystem recovery and establishing new pathways for community-led environmental monitoring.
The expedition began on March 27 in Atafu, continued through Nukunonu to Fakaofo, and culminated with final consultations with the Fakaofo Taupulega.
The rapid assessment expedition was a collaboration between Conservation International, New Zealand Geographic, the Samoa Conservation Society, and the Tokelau Government’s Economic Department of Natural Resources and Environment (EDNRE), with critical support from the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) and Blackmores Foundation, represents the most thorough environmental survey of Tokelau’s ecosystems in nearly two decades.
Tokelau leaders including Pulenuku Tinielu Tuumuli of Fakaofo and the Ulu of Tokelau, Mr. Esera Fofo Tuisano, were acknowledged for the deep interest and commitment of Tokelau’s leadership to the protection and sustainable management of their environment.
The expedition team shared preliminary findings, including observations of coral reef recovery following past bleaching events, recovery that appears to be supported by the healthy diversity and abundance of fish species recorded, while on land, some atolls were noted for their thriving seabird populations and absence of invasive myna birds.
The Taupulega councils of each atoll expressed keen anticipation for the team’s return in the coming months with the final expedition report and the Tokelau Environmental Education Resource Kit for Primary Schools—tools that will further empower local communities and future generations in environmental stewardship.
Asi Fangalua Halaleva-Pasilio, director of Tokelau’s Department of Economic Development, Natural Resources and Environment emphasised the importance of the expedition’s findings: “The Government of Tokelau expresses its gratitude for the continues support from MFAT, Conservation International, NZ Geographic, and the Samoa Conservation Society in conducting these essential environmental surveys. These efforts are crucial in ensuring the sustainability of our environment for future generations. The ongoing challenges posed by climate change are issues that Tokelau cannot address alone, making these expeditions invaluable. The findings from this expedition will undoubtedly enhance our ability to manage and protect our vulnerable environment.”
