Kiribati Case Study Flashcards
What is an environmental challenge for Kiribati?
Severe and frequent coral bleaching caused by warming ocean waters could hinder the growth of Kiribati’s reefs, compounding the dangers of sea-level rise. Half of all coral reefs are expected to be destroyed by 2050. There will also be damage to the delicate biodiversity of the islands.
What is the economic threat that they face?
Without any adaptation, Kiribati could lose about 34 percent of its1998 GDP by 2050 because of climate change and sea level rise, and mostly covered by 2100, by water.
What are the socio-economic factors?
Furthermore, warmer oceans broadly lead to more violent and regular hazardous tropical storm events, the socio-environmental consequences of which in the pacific would be potentially harmful to the long-term further development and inhabitability of these islands. In addition, for mainly subsistence-reliant locals, this could destroy incomes and livelihoods.
How can sea level rise be managed in Kiribati?
local governments have pledged as part of their ’20 years plan’ to protect the islands from flooding by raising them through dredging. This essentially in the short to medium term will allow life to continue but may have significant environmental consequences on surrounding coral reef environments. Furthermore, they are considering in the future constructing elevated roads to adapt to flooding conditions and prevent the entire country being inaccessible. This may also help with recovery efforts following tropical storm.
