PEBACC+ Launches a Wetlands Restoration Project in Wallis and Futuna

As part of the Pacific Ecosystem-based Adaptation to Climate Change (PEBACC+) project, a major wetlands restoration initiative has been launched in Wallis and Futuna to strengthen resilience to the impacts of climate change.

With the support of the Territorial Environment Service and local communities, the project team is working to restore mangroves and taro fields, two key ecosystems essential for protecting coastlines, public health, and food security in the territory.

Mangroves act as a powerful natural defense against erosion and rising sea levels, while also playing a vital role in water purification, coral reef protection, and providing habitat for numerous fish and crab species, many of which are important for local food security and culture.

"The sediment accumulation within the mangroves, behind this line of rocks, is evident," explains François Tron, PEBACC+ Coordinator. "Long ago, elders placed some rocks here, allowing mangroves to settle and leading to natural soil build-up, reinforcing the shoreline against waves and storms."

To ensure the success of the project, local teams have been trained in mangrove ecology, drawing also on ancient coastal management practices. Five to six priority sites have already been selected for active restoration.

In parallel, the project is also supporting the restoration of taro fields in Futuna, increasing their capacity to naturally filter sediments and act as a buffer against heavy rainfall, thus protecting coral reefs.

Through the Ecosystems and Socio-economic Resilience Analysis and Mapping (ESRAM) tool, the PEBACC+ project will also support the territory in enhancing the environmental aspirations of its local communities, in close collaboration with the CLIPSSA project funded by the AFD.