The vegetation and flora of Nauru - 2007: current status, cultural importance and suggestions for conservation, restoration, rehabilitation, agroforestry and food, health and economic security

Abstract

Despite the extremely limited and degraded status of the vegetation and flora of Nauru, plants will remain one of the most important foundations for sustainable living and the survival of the rich Nauruan culture on the island of Nauru. This is particularly true given the recent economic crisis, increasing climatic variability and the need for the island to become more self-reliant in food and other products and services that can be provided by plants. The 2007 survey and mapping of the vegetation and flora of the island further stress the threatened status and importance of the protection and restoration of the island's natural and cultural plants and vegetation as one of the most cost-effective and culturally and environmentally appropriate ways of promoting a sustainable future in Nauru.