30 January 2012: The January 2012 issue of the “Micronesia Challenge Newsletter,” published by the Micronesia Challenge Secretariat, features articles on: The Nature Conservancy’s (TNC) fulfilling its financial commitment to the Micronesia Challenge, handing over US$1 million at a ceremony in Palau; a partnership with the New York Botanical Garden; and an NGO profile of the Kosrae Conservation and Safety Organization (KCSO).

According to the newsletter, TNC’s contribution of US$1 million signalled a milestone in sustainable financing for the Micronesia Challenge. TNC also pledged US$3 million toward an endowment, Conservation International pledged US$3 million, and a regional grant was provided by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) for US$6 million. In addition, the Governments of Palau, the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) and the Marshall Islands committed to matching pledged funds 2:1. To date, Palau has raised US$4 million in matching funds. Palau has six sites officially in the nationwide Protected Areas Network (PAN).

The Micronesia Challenge, a commitment by the FSM, Marshall Islands, Palau, Guam and the Northern Marianas Islands, aims to conserve at least 30 percent of near-shore marine resources and 20 percent of terrestrial resources across Micronesia by 2020, exceeding the goals set by current international conventions and treaties.

The newsletter also includes an interview with Wayne Law, New York Botanic Garden, about his work on Pohnpei and Kosrae and the Garden’s interest in Micronesian plants. It also includes a profile of KCSO, a Kosrae NGO and strategic partner in the Micronesia Challenge that works on marine conservation, environmental education and terrestrial conservation. [Micronesia Challenge Website] [IISD RS Sources]