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Vava'uVava'u, located in the northern part of the Kingdom of Tonga, consists of more than 50 picturesque islands that many consider an ultimate tropical paradise. Each year hundreds of yachts cruise through Vava'u's crystal clear water to anchor near white sandy beaches with lush palm trees. Locals embrace Vava'u's breathtaking nature for the natural resources it provides them to help survive in such a remote location; coconuts are everywhere, root crops grow in abundance, and the ocean is filled with an assortment of marine life. Vava'u has an incredible environmental landscape and VEPA works to protect its unparalleled beauty and preserve its natural resources.
VEPA
The Vava’u Environmental Protection Association was started in May 2009 by a group of local leaders concerned with the pressing environmental conservation issues facing the islands of Vava’u. The group is aimed at ensuring biodiversity and conservation, increasing knowledge exchange, and securing sustainable livelihoods.
Biodiversity and Conservation
VEPA works on conservation projects in a range of environmental habitats including coral reefs, mangroves, and forest areas. We work to protect and restore these natural resources for the benefit of Vava’u and the world around us. In doing so we hope to ensure that Vava’u maintains its unique biological diversity.
Knowledge Exchange
VEPA strives to increase awareness on current environmental issues and connect environmental advocates. Everyone has a stake in the health and beauty of Vava’u, and VEPA is a resource for different communities to unite and work towards this mutual goal. We support individuals with backgrounds ranging from health, to tourism, and village development.
Sustainable Livelihoods
VEPA seeks to protect Vava’u’s environment so that resources will be available for future generations. Perhaps more than in an industrialized nation, maintaining a healthy environment is truly essential for life on these islands. Our work helps fishermen, farmers, and women's groups provide for their families in a way that will be sustainable for years to come.
