Living on an area of 37 hectares, the people of Anuta in the Solomon Islands are completely dependent on their marine resources for their survival. To adapt to climate change, they build seawalls that block incoming waves during storms or high swells, protecting their homes and fishing boats from the outside, which are the most important asset of Anuta Island. Credit: Zahiyd Namo/Solomon Islands
by IPS Correspondent (Pacific islands)
Inter Press Service
PACIFIC ISLANDS, Aug 08 (IPS) – The winners of the Pacific Community photo competition show the negative impact of climate change on beautiful and sensitive areas, documenting the most pressing issues facing island communities today.
The images will be used to illustrate a soon-to-be-published book: Impacts of climate change on fisheries and aquaculture in the Pacific Islands region. The Australian and New Zealand governments supported an international team of experts who chose to work in partnership with the SPC.
IPS today publishes a selection of these winning images.
The Sinking Islands of Kove. For thousands of people, the islands of the Kove region have been a place to call home. As the population grows, more homes are built above the water. However, due to poor infrastructure and dwindling land values, their homes are now threatened by rising sea levels and unpredictable weather. Credit: Tiana Reimann/Papua New Guinea At low tide, an i-Taukei fisherwoman collects cockles from the Nasese sea wall, a ritual controlled by time and tides. His resilience reflects the struggle of Pacific communities against rising seas and a changing environment, showing the deep connection between climate change and traditional fisheries. Credit: Josh Kuilamu/Fiji A fisherman casts his net over mud, which is filled with mud, revealing the severe effects of climate change in Yuru Harbour, East Kwaio, Malaita Province, Solomon Islands. Rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns have led to increased siltation and disrupted fisheries and aquaculture, threatening marine life and traditional fishing-dependent livelihoods. Credit: Zorik Olangi/Solomon Islands The water is flooding, showing that nature and people are in danger. Trees cannot grow because of the salt, leaving nothing. This photo warns of the effect of climate change on our islands and islands. It is a clear sign that we need to take action to keep our world safe. Credit: Gitty Keziah Yee/Tuvalu
