Our development gains continue to be reversed as a direct result of sea level rise from damaged infrastructure, saltwater intrusion into agricultural lands, erosion of land, and our food sources and livelihoods are compromised.
This has been highlighted by President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere while speaking during discussion on threats posed by sea level rise, held on the margins of the 79th United Nations General Assembly.
Ratu Wiliame says sea level rise is an inescapable risk and a well-known reality across the Small Island State and the complexity and scale of threats faced is alarming.
He says in Fiji, the concentration of our communities, economies and infrastructure are in close proximity to the coastal zones.
Ratu Wiliame says the average elevation of island countries is about three to seven feet above sea level when compared to sea level rise in the Blue Pacific which is 2 to 3 times the global average.
He also highlighted some key initiatives in the National Climate Change Policy including the development of resilient infrastructure and community-based approaches that leverage local knowledge.
The President says our future is uncertain and asks where will it be in the next 100 years, will our children and their children have a place to call home.
He adds we have no reason to rest on our laurels as sea level is a global problem that requires a global solution.
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