Name: Ms. Nialangis A. Posanau
Job Title: Sustainability & MSC Coordinator
Organization: Fishing Industry Association (PNG) Inc.
Country: Papua New Guinea
Ms. Nialangis A. Posanau, the Sustainability & MSC Coordinator for the Fishing Industry Association in Papua New Guinea, plays a critical role in promoting sustainable marine resource management. She collaborates closely with industry leaders and the PNG Government, particularly the National Fisheries Authority (NFA), in her efforts to ensure a sustainable future for the country's marine resources.
One of Nialangis' most significant accomplishments is her involvement in obtaining the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) fishery certification for the Lobster fishery in PNG. This internationally recognized certification ensures that the lobsters are sourced from a sustainable fishery, with minimized impact on marine ecosystems and robust governance mechanisms. This achievement marks a major milestone, allowing PNG lobsters to carry the MSC logo, signifying their sustainable origin.
Nialangis faces several challenges in her career, particularly in advocacy and educational awareness at the community level. With varying literacy levels across the Pacific, conveying new approaches to marine resource management to local communities presents a substantial hurdle. Another major challenge is resource limitation, both financial and human, which often necessitates external expertise for important projects like fishery assessments. She emphasizes the need for training local specialists to reduce dependence on outside experts and manage costs effectively.
Nialangis considers the MSC certification of both Tuna and Lobster fisheries in PNG as her greatest accomplishment, supporting industry members and contributing to the nation's sustainable development.
In her free time, Nialangis enjoys fishing, playing soccer, and spending time with friends. Although not an avid reader due to work commitments, she enjoys John Grisham's novels and loves listening to Reggae music. Her favorite foods include local PNG cuisines and Asian delicacies, and she is a fan of the Manchester United Football team.
Having lived all her life in PNG, Nialangis has traveled to various countries, including the Solomon Islands, Vietnam, Philippines, and Australia. However, her dream holiday destination is Japan, a country she admires and wishes to explore further.
Nialangis learned about PNEA while assisting with the development of the State of the Environment Report for PNG, supported by SPREP. The portal has been instrumental in her professional development, offering valuable insights into environmental impact assessments and other environmental topics. She eagerly anticipates further training and webinars through PNEA, keen to continue her learning and growth in the field.