PCS and Ipang Seineng advance community partnership in conservation
Koror, Palau May 15, 2025- The Palau Conservation Society (PCS) and Ipang Seineng era Oreor, one of Palau’s largest women’s group in Koror, met on May 15, 2025 at Bai ra Maiberel to strengthen collaboration on invasive species management, climate resilience, and local conservation initiatives.
Attending the meeting were the leader of Ipang Seineng Ms. Waisang Fritz-Mariur along with the kambu from each hamlet. From PCS were Board Chairman TJ Imrur Remengesau, Founder and board member Ms. Sandra S. Pierantozzi, Executive Director Elbuchl Sadang and staff.
PCS Chairman TJ Imrur Remengesau opened the meeting by highlighting the vital role women play in environmental stewardship. Reflecting on a recent Green Climate Fund meeting in the Cook Islands, where women led many of the discussions, he emphasized the alignment between caring for families and caring for the environment. He also commended Ipang Seineng’s contributions through community clean-ups and planting activities at the Rock Islands.
“The actions we take today are for our children and those who follow,” he said.
Emau Rengulbai and Porse Greps from PCS’s Conservation and Protected Area Program presented on current work on establishing inter-island biosecurity with the states of Koror and Kayangel to address the threat of invasive species in Palau. They shared examples of priority invasive species and identified ways local groups like Ipang Seineng can contribute to long-term environmental resilience.
Participants exchanged experiences and ideas in a productive discussion, identifying practical ways to support local education on invasive species and climate adaptation.
Executive Director Elbuchel Sadang concluded the meeting by emphasizing community responsibility in conservation efforts. He invited the group to upcoming learning exchanges: one visiting protected areas in Babeldaob and another overnight visit to Kayangel to connect with women leaders and share traditional knowledge on taro cultivation and conservation.
These visits are tentatively scheduled between late June and early July. He also invited Ipang Seineng to attend the PCS Annual General Membership Meeting on June 12, where they can learn more about PCS’s work, become a member, and help shape PCS’s leadership moving forward.
The meeting ended with one Ipang member joining PCS membership on the spot and encouraging others to do the same. By the end, eight new members had signed up, showing a clear commitment to community-led conservation.
This partnership signals the start of ongoing collaboration between PCS and Ipang Seineng. By working together, they are building a future rooted in shared knowledge, community action, and lasting stewardship of Palau’s environment.