Leading the way with our projects
Discover the Melanesia Bio-Cultural Network's projects, showcasing community-led solutions, traditional knowledge, and sustainable development. We're committed to fostering resilience and amplifying Indigenous voices. We're glad you're here to be part of our story.
Our project pillars
The Melanesia Bio-Cultural Network supports projects that are community‑led, culturally grounded, and regionally connected. Our work strengthens Indigenous governance systems and supports conservation, livelihoods, and policy engagement, always prioritising Indigenous leadership, respect for traditional knowledge, and long‑term ecological and social resilience.
Research projects
Co-designed with Indigenous communities and guided by Traditional Ecological Knowledge, our research strengthens data sovereignty, elevates traditional knowledge, and provides practical benefits.
Supporting community conservation
We support Indigenous-led initiatives on customary land and sea, building on systems like kastom and tabu areas to improve biodiversity protection.
Building networks for sustainable livelihoods
Connecting conservation with economic opportunity, these projects support biocultural livelihoods rooted in place, culture, and sustainability.
Policy advocacy projects
Supporting Indigenous communities to shape policies and decisions, ensuring Melanesian voices, values, and governance systems are represented globally.
Melanesia's solutions through integration
Melanesians are part of the solution. Through Indigenous governance, community‑led project design, and partnerships grounded in mutual respect with regional universities and institutions, Melanesian communities can create a sustainable future.
Project 01-2026:
Conservation Based on Local Populations: The Melanesian Way of Culturally Preserving Natural Resources and Biodiversity
This project is funded by Fonds Pacifique, Melbourne Biodiversity Institute, and Bio-Bridge (CBD)
Project 02-2026
Planning and Establishment of the Melanesia Bio-Cultural Network
The formalisation of MBCN will be implemented in November 2026, following the seed funding awarded by the Melbourne Biodiversity Institute in 2025. This support will enable the Network to conduct a strategic workshop, launch the inaugural MBCN White Paper, and strengthen regional partnerships across Melanesia. Through these activities, the MBCN will establish its governance foundations and position itself as a leading platform for Indigenous‑led biodiversity action and biocultural governance in the region.
