The forests of Tafea Province hold some of the richest terrestrial flora in Vanuatu and on Tanna Island, this biodiversity is deeply intertwined with traditional ecological knowledge that has been preserved for generations.
Places like Mt Tukusmera, Mt Melon and Green Hill remain among the last intact forests, standing as living archives of both nature and culture. However, these landscapes face mounting pressures from cyclones, volcanic ashfall, invasive species and climate change impacts, to unregulated development, pollution and waste.
In response, communities have established conservation areas such as Nimatang and Nusumetu Tibinemei, which serve as vital sanctuaries and learning grounds for resilience. These initiatives are being led by the Vanuatu Department of Environment Protection and Conservation (DEPC) in coordination with other ministries, departments and provincial councils, regional organisations and donors.
