Approximately 65 million people live globally on small islands. They are increasingly affected by climate change. The vulnerability of island people is amplified by climate change impacts of sea-level rise, increased temperatures, changing rain patterns, more intense tropical cyclones, storm surges, floods, droughts, coral bleaching, and invasive species.
Climate change affects community housing, buildings, infrastructure, health, wellbeing, and water and food security. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change reports that small island nations present the most urgent need for investment in capacity building and adaptation strategies.
Many island nations are leading the way on climate change action. They are adapting and building resilience through strong communities that incorporate local knowledge, strong social safety nets, cultural resource incorporation into decision-making, and embracing renewable energy and technological solutions for waste management. Global funding like the $515 million grant from Implementing Sustainable Low and Non-chemical Development in Small Island Developing States Programme (ISLANDS) from the Global Environment Facility will continue to help address disposal of toxic chemicals and waste as well as management of marine litter by 2027.
Photo: Male, Maldives. Credit: Ishan Hassan / Ocean Image Bank