The Marshall Islands, on the frontline of climate change impacts, is empowering their communities and people through a special climate change week organised every year.
In 2024, this was the third time this nation-wide, government mandated event was held to help raise awareness and promote climate change action across the Marshall Islands. From 22 – 26 April, over 500 people built their climate change knowledge and capacity through the exhibitions and events held.
At its highest point, the low-lying atoll stands at only 2 metres above sea level. A one-meter sea level rise will mean 40% of the buildings in its capital city, Majuro would be permanently inundated and flooded, and entire islands will disappear.
If glaciers and polar ice sheets continue melting at the current rate sea level rise is forecast at 1.3 meters by the year 2100.
"RMI faces numerous development challenges, but climate change poses the greatest threat to our nation. It is crucial that we safeguard our people and take immediate action to address this pressing issue," said Honourable Bremity Lakjohn, Minister in Assistance to the President and Environment, emphasising the urgent need for climate action.
Throughout the 2024 Climate Change week, the series of impactful activities engaged the community, highlighted environmental sustainability, and showcased ongoing efforts to combat climate change. Local schools participated in open discussions, debates, and creative diorama displays, demonstrating the active involvement of the younger generation in climate discussions.
The 2024 Climate Change week exhibition at the International Conference Centre featured over 10 booths and was targeted towards high schools and college students however it was also open to the public.
Ms Loredel Areieta, Program Manager for Jo-Jikum, a climate change youth group in Marshall Islands emphasised the critical role of youth in climate advocacy, stating: "The youth play a vital role in shaping a sustainable future. They will inherit the climate challenges of today, and it is essential that we empower them to develop solutions."
The event also featured informative booths hosted by key stakeholders.
The Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) under the Enhancing Climate Information and Knowledge Services for Resilience in five Island Countries of the Pacific or UNEP CIS-Pac5 programme together with its North Pacific Office showcased activities actioned in partnership with RMI to help build resilience through a range of climate change related initiatives.
The showcase included environment and climate change informational material and a demonstration of intuitive data tools including the RMI Environment Data Portal to inform the community on climate related data and information. The Republic of the Marshall Islands is one of five countries participating in the UNEP CIS-Pac5 programme together with Cook Islands, Niue, Palau and Tuvalu working towards empowering communities and building resilience to climate change.
“The success of Climate Change Week 2024 demonstrates the Republic of the Marshall Islands' commitment to environmental sustainability and resilience-building,” said Mr Tavita Sua the Pacific Environment Portal Systems Developer and Analyst of SPREP.
“Through bringing the diverse range of stakeholder and partners together, this event has raised awareness, fostered dialogue, and catalysed concrete actions towards a more sustainable future for the Marshall Islands. SPREP stands ready to continue supporting RMI in her endeavour for a resilient Pacific.”
The Marshall Islands Climate Change Week was held from 22 – 26 April 2024.