Climate change is a major threat for Pacific communities, says Sefanaia Nawadra, the Director General of the South Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP). His recent comments come after the United States announced its withdrawal from SPREP, a move he views as a troubling signal for the year ahead.
Nawadra expressed concern about what this decision means, especially in a geopolitically tense region. He noted, “The biggest potential loss for us is the strong partnerships we’ve built with US agencies. Their political presence was valued.”
Pacific leaders have consistently emphasized that climate change is their most pressing challenge. Nawadra stated, “Climate change threatens our livelihoods, security, and existence. We are in a climate emergency.” He assured that SPREP would keep focusing on climate priorities to support Pacific nations.
SPREP aims to unite countries to strengthen their commitments under the Paris Agreement. Nawadra believes it’s crucial to keep the global temperature rise within 1.5 degrees Celsius to ensure survival. He also mentioned that Australia will play a significant role in upcoming negotiations as the “President of Negotiations.”
A highlight for the Pacific is the recent agreement on marine biodiversity, known as the BBNJ pact. This agreement, after years of effort, allows Pacific nations to protect their oceans better. “This is a win for our efforts in ocean conservation,” Nawadra remarked. It will enable countries to safeguard migratory species by managing marine corridors effectively.
Nawadra recently visited Tonga, where he observed similar environmental struggles. “Tonga faces significant challenges from climate change, just like other Pacific nations,” he said. He pointed out that SPREP will focus on supporting Pacific engagement in global environmental treaties and working towards a treaty on plastics this year.
Funding is another concern. The US was SPREP’s second-largest financial backer in 2024, contributing $190,000, which is about 15% of the total funding from member states. This amount was slightly less than the previous year’s support.
Overall, SPREP remains committed to helping Pacific communities tackle the impacts of climate change. Nawadra believes that by working together with member nations and partners, they can make a meaningful difference in protecting their environment and people.
Recent surveys indicate a growing concern among Pacific Islanders about climate change, highlighting the urgent need for action. According to the Pacific Islands Forum, more than 80% of surveyed residents view climate change as an immediate threat to their daily lives.
In this context, it’s essential for nations to collaborate and find solutions that not only address environmental issues but also strengthen community resilience. This aligns with the broader understanding that collective action can lead to impactful change in the fight against climate challenges.
