Participatory Spatial Planning for Small Islands Resources Management: A Case Study of Yavusa Navakavu, Fiji

Abstract

This thesis presents a Participatory Spatial Planning for Small Island Resource Management: A Case Study of Yavusa Navakavu, Fiji. Therefore, participatory spatial planning (PSP) methodology is specifically designed for small island communities, using Yavusa Navakavu in Fiji as a case study. Navakavu, recognized for its biodiversity and deeply rooted cultural traditions, is facing increasing pressures from urbanization, climate change, overfishing, and pollution, especially due to its proximity to Suva and the Lami industrial zone. The research addresses these challenges through a collaborative spatial planning approach that combines traditional ecological knowledge with spatial analysis methods to promote sustainable resource governance. The research has three objectives, i.e. to (1) identify and assess the current resources of the land and sea use patterns in Navakavu coastal area based on traditional knowledge, (2) analyse social-ecologial system (SES) for mapping a system pattern of Navakavu coastal area, and (3) develop a proposed participatory spatial planning model and an effective implementation plan. This research was conducted using mixed methods, such as semi-structured interviews, participatory mapping with local leaders and residents, and Global Positioning System (GPS)- based surveys to delineate current and proposed land and marine usage zones. The data were subsequently digitized and analyzed using ArcGIS Pro and Fragstats software. This mixed methods approach was deeply participatory, starting from traditional ceremonies such as ‘Sevusevu’ to technical sessions involving local people, thereby ensuring both cultural sensitivity and scientific rigor. The results showed that Navakavu’s land was primarily used for agriculture and forestry, and mangroves, while marine zones were dominated by fishing activities, tabu (no-take) zones, and coral planting. However, spatial analysis revealed high cohesion in both land and sea areas, but these patterns were found to be random due to the lack of significant clustering. This suggests that while resource use is widespread and diverse, it is not spatially concentrated, which could challenge strategic zoning. The SES mapping highlighted strong community governance structures rooted in traditional systems but also pointed to challenges in formal recognition and the inclusion of marginalized groups like women and youth in decision-making. This study concludes that the PSP area is rooted in both traditional knowledge and modern geospatial analysis, which can support sustainable development goals for coastal communities in small islands. The proposed PSP model offers a replicable framework for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) facing similar pressures. However, for this to work, this research recommends stronger legal recognition of customary governance systems, inclusive engagement processes, improved data monitoring, and long-term capacity building. Future research should explore how to scale this model across other coastal regions while ensuring that local cultural dynamics are respected and integrated into formal planning structures.