Launch of the UNDP-GEF Timor-Arafura Seas Project
An action plan to address threats to fisheries and living marine resources in the Arafura and Timor Seas, has attracted US$2.65 million in support from the Global Environment Facility and US$5.45 million in co-financing from the Indonesian, Timor Leste and Australian Government. The Arafura and Timor Seas Ecosystem Action (ATSEA) program launched at the 5th GEF International Waters Conference will develop a Transboundary Diagnostic Analysis which will assess the current state of the environment and resources in the Arafura and Timor Seas, including pressures, threats and impacts from over-exploitation, pollution and climate change. This will form the basis for the development and agreement on a multi-lateral Strategic Action Program (SAP) that will see the three countries working together in the sustainable management of their shared seas. Papua New Guinea will be invited to join the project. One high priority is illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing, and this will be tackled by the development of alternative sustainable livelihoods for coastal people. Interviewees: Anna Tengberg, UN Development Programme (UNDP) Tonny Wagey, Arafura and Timor Seas Ecosystem Action (ATSEA) Video Produced for GEF IW:LEARN by The 20/20 Group
