Fiji hit hard by climate crisis despite contributing just 0.004% of emissions

Fiji remains on the frontline of climate change despite contributing just 0.004 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions.

This was highlighted by Ministry of Environment Climate Change director Senivasa Waqairamasi during the Climate Change Fallout International Talanoa Session, Panel One on High-Level Climate Change and Sustainable Development.

Waqairamasi says Fiji remains highly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, including rising sea levels, flooding, and threats to food and water security.

She says recent data from Fiji’s National Inventory Report shows an increasing trend in greenhouse gas emissions, with the energy sector contributing the largest share at over 52 percent, followed by forestry and land use, agriculture, waste, and industrial processes.

Waqairamasi stresses that climate change is no longer a future concern but a reality already affecting communities across the country.

She reveals that in recent weeks, the government has carried out groundbreaking ceremonies for the relocation of vulnerable communities affected by flooding and environmental changes.

These include villages where homes have already been damaged or washed away, with financial support of about $100,000 provided for each affected community through climate funding partnerships.

Insert:Waqairamasi on programes 30th March

Waqairamasi adds that addressing climate change requires urgent action, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to renewable energy sources.

She says Fiji is taking a leadership role globally, including hosting the pre-COP 31 meeting under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change later this year.

Waqairamasi also highlights key national efforts, including the implementation of the Climate Change Act 2021 and Fiji’s Nationally Determined Contributions, which set emission reduction targets and outline sector-specific actions.

She emphasises the need for stronger access to climate finance, technology transfer, and partnerships to support Fiji’s transition efforts.

Waqairamasi says a united approach involving government, civil society, religious leaders, and communities is critical to ensuring a sustainable future for Fiji.