The coastal zone is one of Vanuatu’s greatest assets. Its unique values and resources are vital to the Ni- Vanuatu way of life, subsequently, the capacity to ensure ecologically sustainable use and development of the coastal zone is imperative for all the Ni-Vanuatu people, both now and into the future.
There are about 30 species of mangroves in Solomon Islands, representing 40% of the world's mangrove species. They can be found on most islands ans it is estimated that mangroves here cover an area of about 50 000 hectares.
Mangroves are important resources for livelihoodof rural coastal communities. However there ias not an endleess supply.
Erosion is the process where soft shorelines (sand, gravel
or cobble) disappear and land is lost. Erosion generally
comes in two forms; 1) A natural part of the coastal environment
where a soft shore moves and changes in response to
cyclic climatic conditions, and 2) Erosion can be induced by
human interference of natural sand movement and budget
patterns. Erosion can be slow and ongoing over many
years or fast and dramatic following large storm events.
Many erosion problems in the Pacific today, occur because
Vanuatu is expected to incur, on average, 48 million
USD per year in losses due to earthquakes and tropical
cyclones. In the next 50 years, Vanuatu has a 50% chance
of experiencing a loss exceeding 330 million USD and
casualties larger than 725 people, and a 10% chance
of experiencing a loss exceeding 540 million USD and
casualties larger than 2,150 people.
The Pacific developing member countries (DMCs) of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) are a diverse array of countries with widely varying topographies, cultures and economies, fragile natural resource environments, and prosperity, stability, and security that can be compromised by the impacts and consequences of climate change. The Pacific island governments view climate change as a priority issue, especially in terms of its potential impacts on food security, and need clear directions in addressing both issues.
Climate Change in the Pacific is a rigorously researched, peer-reviewed scientific assessment of the climate of the western Pacific region. Building on the Fourth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, this two volume publication represents a comprehensive resource on the climate of the Pacific.