Engaging our Pacific neighbours on climate change : Australia's approach

Abstract

Predicted changes to the climate in the Pacific region over the coming decades are expected to have significant implications for the livelihoods of Pacific island inhabitants. While contributing little to the greenhouse gas emissions driving climate change, Pacific island countries are particularly vulnerable to its impacts because of their geographical, social, institutional and economic characteristics. Key impacts include damage to coastal systems, settlements and infrastructure; undermining of recent economic progress; exacerbation of existing water and food security challenges; increasing threats to human health; and degradation of regional biodiversity. Global mitigation efforts are a priority both for Australia and for Pacific island countries. In international climate change negotiations, Australia is advocating an ambitious global effort to stabilise greenhouse gases at 450 parts per million (ppm) carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2?e) or lower.