The upcoming Adaptation Futures conference will take place in Christchurch, New Zealand, from October 13-16, 2025. A key focus will be the climate challenges faced by Pacific island nations, particularly Vanuatu.
Vanuatu is made up of 83 islands nestled in the South Pacific, and it stands out as one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change. According to the World Risk Index, Vanuatu consistently ranks as the world’s most at-risk nation for climate-related disasters. This vulnerability stems from its geography, sitting on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” which is known for volcanic activity and earthquakes, as well as being in the cyclone belt. These cyclones are becoming more frequent and dangerous due to climate change.
Catastrophic events, such as Cyclone Pam in 2015, devastated the islands, damaging about 90% of structures and affecting half of the population. More recently, Cyclone Harold struck in 2020, causing an estimated $768 million in damages.
The population of Vanuatu, around 325,000 people, is mostly coastal, making them particularly susceptible to rising sea levels. The islands are characterized by rugged landscapes and limited infrastructure, which complicates disaster response.
Despite these challenges, Vanuatu is working on innovative solutions for climate adaptation. For instance, a project on the largest island, Espiritu Santo, aims to help communities adapt through ecosystem restoration, disaster preparedness, and improved food security. This initiative, funded by the Adaptation Fund and managed by the UNDP, highlights the importance of community involvement.
Community leaders and environmental groups like the Santo Sunset Environment Network (SSEN) are crucial in these efforts. They are building disaster committees, which assess damage and identify urgent needs after severe weather events. In 2023 alone, the island faced two Category 5 cyclones within a week, prompting these committees to act quickly.
Joses Togase, a project manager with SSEN, emphasizes the serious threats climate change poses to the community. He notes how rising sea levels and unpredictable weather are damaging crops and freshwater access. In response, the community is encouraged to move towards climate-smart agriculture, embracing techniques like growing drought-resistant crops and maintaining traditional farming methods.
Vanuatu’s Indigenous communities have been adapting to environmental changes for over 3,000 years. Today, they continue to do so, utilizing traditional knowledge while integrating new practices to combat the climate crisis. According to Togase, there’s a growing awareness among locals about the importance of mitigating climate threats through collaboration and respect for traditional governance.
As Vanuatu navigates its climate challenges, it demonstrates resilience through innovation and community strength. The journey is ongoing, but the people of Vanuatu are meeting these challenges head-on, using both age-old wisdom and new ideas to secure a sustainable future.
For more insights on climate change and its effects on island nations, you can read further here.
