Ecosystem services and faith communities in Oceania

The interwoven threads that connect people, faith and environment across the scattered islands of Oceania show great diversity and complexity. Given that these remote populations face urgent challenges, this paper sets out a preliminary argument for closer integration between scientific and faith communities to enhance ecosystem services delivered by fragile ecologies. An overview of the diversity of traditional beliefs and religions provides context, while examples of key statements made by faith-leaders and projects undertaken by faith communities highlight the value of bringing together good science and good will. A novel pathway is proposed to foster active collaboration with in situ faith communities and extend synergies with science-based ecosystem services approaches to challenging problems. Early research suggests co-ordination between faith and science may improve the understanding and delivery of ecosystem services and better support Oceania communities faced with escalating climate impacts, and potential loss of livelihoods and ancestral homelands.