Untamed, preserved nature

For centuries, Tahitians have had a special relationship with their environment. They respect and venerate their natural surroundings. The mana is the sacred force in these islands that is present in every living thing, past and present. The local population is well aware of the fragility of the environment in which they live, which is why the traditional practices that respect nature continue to be observed. An example of this can be seen in the management of marine species to ensure the preservation of the biodiversity and the continuing abundance of fish in the lagoons.

The Islands of Tahiti is committed to the protection and preservation of its natural resources. Various measures have been adopted by the local communities with the support of the government of French Polynesia. They include: the creation of nature reserves, the implementation of strict regulations concerning fishing and hunting, public awareness and educational programs about the preservation of the environment, the promotion of organic farming, and the adoption of ecological tourism practices. Concrete examples of the sustainable measures put in place are the reintroduction of the ancestral practice of rahui and the classification of Fakarava as a biosphere reserve.