Pacific Islands on the Brink: Climate Crisis Calls for Urgent Action

Sea-level rise and the irreversible consequences of climate change are posing significant threats to Pacific Island States, many of which are low-lying. This issue was emphasized by the President of Fiji, Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, during his address at the Welcoming Dinner for the 65th Workshop for Heads of the National Productivity Organizations in Nadi on Tuesday.

President Katonivere expressed that Fiji is struggling to meet the challenges created by natural disasters, particularly through maintenance and relocation initiatives. He urged stakeholders to take decisive action against climate change, noting that numerous communities in Fiji and throughout the Pacific urgently require support.

He warned that by 2050, 240 coastal communities may be displaced due to rising sea levels, with 42 communities facing immediate relocation needs. He stressed the seriousness of the situation and the importance of effective collaboration among nations.

While acknowledging the assistance received from the international community, Ratu Wiliame stated that more efforts are necessary, and highlighted the need for collective work among nations to achieve green productivity.

Manoa Kamikamica, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, MSMEs and Communications, also underscored Fiji’s commitment to green productivity and the integration of artificial intelligence. He pointed out that Fiji has opportunities to develop a circular economy and recycling initiatives, including plans for green landfills that could enhance productivity.

Kamikamica also mentioned Fiji’s first AI Business Process Outsourcing operation, run by KPMG from Australia and staffed by local youth, indicating that artificial intelligence represents the next frontier for green productivity.

The workshop brought together Heads of National Productivity Organizations and advisers from the Asian Productivity Organization, who explored challenges facing the Pacific community in enhancing productivity and the role of AI in future development.