Achieving the desired state of conservation for East Rennell, Solomon Islands: Progress, opportunities and challenges

East Rennell was placed on the List of World Heritage in Danger in 2013. Threats to the site's Outstanding Universal Value include logging, mining, invasive species, and climate change. The site is unlikely to be removed unless actions identified in the 2015 Desired state of conservation for removal of the property from the List of World Heritage in Danger (DSOCR) are implemented. While the Solomon Islands Government has taken some steps towards implementing the DSOCR, overall progress has been minimal, partly due to competing priorities and lack of resources. Consequently, it is unlikely that the DSOCR will be achieved by the target date of 2021. East Rennellese have received little financial benefit from the site's listing and their support for World Heritage may be wavering. To be effective, World Heritage conservation measures must be aligned with local peoples' aspirations and priorities, which include improving livelihoods and preserving culture.