Unlocking New Research to Combat Climate Change in the Pacific

Small Pacific states, along with much of the global community, are in urgent need of enhanced research capabilities to improve climate finance and bolster climate adaptation and resilience initiatives. During the conclusion of the Global Development Conference 2024 at the University of the South Pacific in Suva, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Prof Biman Prasad emphasized the critical role of research and evidence in amplifying efforts against climate change.

“Research is essential for connecting with policy and for challenging conventional approaches,” Mr. Prasad stated. He highlighted the uncertainty of modern times, where scientific foundations are increasingly questioned amid rising anti-science sentiments fueled by technological advancements. He remarked that the demand for expertise in this field has reached unprecedented levels and called for collaboration to reaffirm the importance of evidence-based research and science.

Mr. Prasad urged the Global Development Network (GDN) community to focus on effectively communicating research to a public that is becoming increasingly skeptical. He pointed out that the realities of climate change are especially severe in the Pacific region and expressed hope that upcoming research would concentrate on ocean studies, promote a sustainable blue economy, and ensure that oceans continue to support humanity’s needs.

In his remarks, he underscored the idea that building resilience against climate impacts is not merely an option but a necessity. The challenge of addressing multiple pressing priorities amidst growing public funding constraints is impacting debt levels across the region.

The emphasis on innovative research indicates a pathway toward a more resilient future, grounded in scientific understanding and collaboration, which could ultimately lead to more robust climate finance initiatives.

As the Pacific and other regions confront the harsh realities of climate change, the call for action illustrates a growing commitment to enhancing scientific inquiry and building resilience frameworks that can serve communities worldwide.