Project news
Community Action for Biodiversity in Moorea
11 November 2025
© Kiwa Initiative
The Moorea Biodiversité association organized two action days on 5 and 6 November, bringing together volunteers and nature enthusiasts for ecological restoration activities.
The program included a “Miconia clearing” operation (targeting an invasive plant) on the heights of ‘Opunohu, as well as the maintenance and improvement of the Sentier des Guetteurs trail, followed by invasive species control along the rocky ridge to preserve Moorea’s iconic viewpoints.
These community-driven actions contribute to the protection of island ecosystems and the preservation of local biodiversity, as part of a collective effort supported by the Kiwa Initiative, the Pacific Community (SPC), the Diren, the AFD, Te Me Um, and private sponsors.
Two Days for Biodiversity
2 April 2026
© Kiwa Initiative
April 1st Poison is all we think about!
Miconia Session!
Meet at 8:00 AM at the 'Opunohu Belvedere hiking car park.
On the 2nd, meet at 8:30 AM behind the Fare Natura — time to marvel during the breaks "Biodiversity Restoration".
Theme
co-benefits
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Project namePAA HONU : Programme d’Actions pour l’amélioration des habitats ouverts naturels et uniques sur l’île de Moorea
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Project LeadMoorea Biodiversité
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Project StartAugust 2025
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Estimated termMarch 2027
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Amount of funding€ 49,960
Project locations
Protecting Moorea’s forests from the invasive Miconia, Project PAA HONU strengthens biodiversity, water security and community resilience against rising climate risks. By restoring native ecosystems in the ‘Ōpūnohu watershed, this 12-month initiative led by Moorea Biodiversité mobilizes youth, schools and local partners around nature-based solutions. Linking forest health with lagoon protection, food security and public health, the project combines hands-on conservation with education, capacity building and communication tools — from field training to video content — to ensure lasting impact. PAA HONU aims to enhance the resilience of 460 ha of natural forest, securing Moorea’s unique environment.
Project PAA HONU (Programme of Actions for the Improvement of Natural Open and Unique Habitats) addresses one of Moorea’s most urgent environmental challenges: the invasion of Miconia calvescens. This fast-spreading tree weakens native forests, accelerates erosion, and undermines water resources and biodiversity. The project focuses on the ‘Ōpūnohu watershed, a priority conservation area providing vital ecosystem services to the island.
Led by Moorea Biodiversité, the 12-month initiative combines practical conservation with education and community engagement. Teams of volunteers, students, and young people remove invasive plants, monitor forest recovery, and support the regeneration of native species. This hands-on work is paired with training, school programs, and communication tools such as videos, educational booklets, and interpretive panels, ensuring that knowledge is shared and rooted locally.
The approach is nature-based: by restoring forest resilience, the project strengthens aquifer recharge, reduces flooding, protects coastal ecosystems and fisheries, and improves public health by maintaining mosquito-controlling river species. It directly addresses climate change impacts — heavier rains, longer droughts, stronger storms — while also safeguarding Moorea’s unique biodiversity and cultural heritage. Ultimately, PAA HONU aims to restore 460 hectares of native forest, secure water and food resources, and empower Moorea’s communities to face climate challenges together.
Project objectives
PAA HONU is designed to generate tangible benefits for both direct participants and the wider community of Moorea. Its objectives translate into measurable ecological, social, and educational outcomes.
- Direct beneficiaries: Around 280 young people, volunteers, students, and community service participants will gain practical training in biodiversity conservation, invasive species control, and climate adaptation. They will develop skills, knowledge, and eco-citizenship values through fieldwork, workshops, and educational materials.
- Broader community: The restoration of 460 hectares of native forest will secure water resources, reduce erosion and flooding risks, and protect lagoon fisheries. Public health will benefit from improved mosquito regulation, while cultural and environmental awareness will be reinforced through videos, booklets, and on-site interpretive panels.
Overall, the project strengthens resilience against climate change, enhances Moorea’s natural heritage, and empowers its population to act collectively for the protection of their island.
Social inclusion and gender equity
PAA HONU integrates gender balance and social inclusion into all project activities, ensuring equal opportunities and broad participation. Key actions include :
- Gender parity: Direct beneficiaries (≈280 participants) are selected with equal representation of men and women, with at least 70% under the age of 30.
- Youth engagement: Schools, vocational centers, and justice-related programs (juvenile offenders, probation services) are involved, providing training and fieldwork opportunities that strengthen eco-citizenship and social reintegration.
- Consultations and partnerships: Local associations, schools, sports clubs, and community groups have been engaged in project design, ensuring that diverse voices and needs are reflected.
- Capacity building: Free trainings on biodiversity, invasive species control, and climate adaptation are tailored to young people and women, empowering them as knowledge bearers and community leaders.
This inclusive approach ensures that conservation benefits extend beyond the environment to foster equity, education, and stronger community resilience.
