Vulnerable islands short on climate adaptation options

Vulnerable islands short on climate adaptation options

Simpson K Abraham, coordinator with the Federal States of Micronesia says that with 80% of the islands’ settlements and 75% of the infrastructure along the coast they are very vulnerable to sea level rise and tidal surges.

“We are assessing our adaptation options, building sea walls, building houses on stilts, fortifying eroded land or relocating settlements. We don’t really have many options. We hope the international community can give us some assistance,” said Abraham.

“Countries like those in the EU probably don’t see the same problems. Back on my islands, you wake up and you see problems. Either you see the land inundated, or strong winds, tidal surges, you name it. It’s there all the time. We issue a plea for support because know we are vulnerable to all of these change.”