Dear Editor, Over a week ago, a group from NES carried out a workshop in Mauke to gain local input, knowledge and concerns as we update the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan from 2002.

We discussed the meaning of Biodiversity, that being, life in all its various forms and the different habitats in which they exist.

The three levels are Genetic Diversity, Species Diversity and Ecosystems.

We were split into groups to have conversations about our Biodiversity, from the land to the ocean. We thought about area management and restoration, species management and threat management.

Our group noted threats such as pigs, rats, and invasive plants. Another group identified purse seining as a threat.

Of particular interest at this time was the realisation that seabed mining threatens all three levels of deep ocean biodiversity.

Seabed mining poses a threat to genetic diversity, species diversity (scientists estimate there are about 8000 unidentified species in the deep), and ecosystems.

I understand PM Mark Brown is considering extending the seabed minerals exploration phase. That is good to hear because we have the responsibility to protect, preserve and promote Cook Islands’ Biodiversity.

Andrew Hosking