Kiribati, a low-lying island nation in the Pacific Ocean, is on the frontlines of climate change. Rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and freshwater contamination are threatening the lives and livelihoods of its people. As one of the most vulnerable countries to global warming, Kiribati serves as a crucial case study for IB Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS) students. This in-depth analysis explores the environmental, social, and economic impacts of climate change on Kiribati and examines potential solutions for its future.
Download this case study
Kiribati, a Pacific island nation composed of 33 atolls and reef islands, has been on the front lines of climate change for decades. With an average elevation of just 2 meters (6.5 feet) above sea level, Kiribati is extremely vulnerable to rising sea levels. Climate change-induced sea level rise, intensified storm surges, and coastal erosion have placed the country in a state of existential crisis, threatening homes, infrastructure, and freshwater supplies.
The Problem
Changes that likely result from climate change have affected Kiribati in a number of ways.
Land Loss and Forced Migration
One of the most immediate threats facing Kiribati is the erosion of land. Rising sea levels and stronger storm surges have led to the inundation of agricultural land, forcing families to abandon their homes. Entire villages, such as Tebunginako on Abaiang Atoll, have had to relocate further inland—only to find that there is little high ground left.
The loss of habitable land has prompted discussions about climate migration. The Kiribati government has adopted a “migration with dignity” policy, urging citizens to acquire skills that will allow them to integrate into other societies, particularly in New Zealand and Fiji. Some families have already moved, with predictions that more than half of Kiribati’s 120,000 residents could be displaced in the coming decades.
Drinking Water Crisis
Saltwater intrusion into the freshwater lens—a crucial underground source of drinking water—has worsened in recent years. Rising sea levels push saltwater further inland, contaminating wells and making water undrinkable. Many communities now rely on rainwater collection systems, but irregular rainfall patterns, another effect of climate change, make this an unreliable solution. Water scarcity has increased the risk of waterborne diseases and food insecurity, as crops fail due to soil salinization.
Economic and Cultural Losses
Kiribati’s economy is heavily dependent on fishing, particularly tuna exports. However, warming ocean temperatures are altering fish migration patterns, forcing Kiribati fishers to travel farther, increasing costs and reducing profits. The tourism sector, another vital industry, has also been affected, as eroding beaches and damaged coral reefs deter visitors.
Beyond economic losses, the cultural identity of Kiribati is under threat. The potential displacement of the entire population would mean the loss of traditional knowledge, language, and customs tied to the land and sea. Many residents fear that Kiribati will become uninhabitable within their lifetimes, leading to the loss of their national identity.
Adaptation and Mitigation
A number of strategies are being implemented to adapt to or mitigate the problems faced by Kiribati.
Climate Migration (“Migration with Dignity”)
One of the most discussed strategies is the “Migration with Dignity” policy, which encourages Kiribati citizens to acquire education and job skills that allow them to integrate into other countries if they are forced to relocate. The government has purchased land in Fiji as a potential resettlement option, though it is not yet actively used for relocation.
Coastal Protection and Infrastructure Adaptation
To slow coastal erosion and protect land, Kiribati has implemented various adaptation measures, including:
- Seawalls and Mangrove Planting: Communities and the government have built seawalls to block rising tides, though many are ineffective against severe storms. Mangrove reforestation helps stabilize coastlines and reduce erosion.
- Elevated Housing and Infrastructure: Some villages are elevating houses on stilts or relocating essential infrastructure to higher ground where possible.
Water Security and Food Production
- Rainwater Harvesting: Since rising seas are contaminating freshwater supplies, Kiribati has increased reliance on rainwater collection systems.
- Desalination Plants: The government, with international aid, has developed desalination plants to convert seawater into drinkable water.
- Climate-Resilient Crops: Farmers are shifting to salt-tolerant crops and hydroponic farming to ensure food production can continue despite worsening soil salinization.
International Advocacy and Climate Finance
Kiribati leaders have been outspoken on the global stage, advocating for:
- Stronger Emission Reductions: They call on major polluters to cut greenhouse gas emissions to slow sea level rise.
- Financial Aid and Climate Adaptation Funds: Kiribati has received funding from the Green Climate Fund and other international programs to help with infrastructure and adaptation projects.
Sustainable Energy and Development
- Solar Power Expansion: To reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels, Kiribati is investing in solar energy to provide electricity in a sustainable way.
- Sustainable Fishing Policies: Since fishing is a key industry, Kiribati is working with international organizations to manage fish stocks and prevent overfishing.
Questions
- What is the primary climate change-related threat facing Kiribati?
- How does saltwater intrusion affect Kiribati’s freshwater supply?
- What is the “Migration with Dignity” policy, and why was it introduced?
- Why are seawalls and mangrove planting important adaptation strategies for Kiribati?
- What are two major economic sectors in Kiribati that have been affected by climate change?
- Why did Kiribati purchase land in Fiji?
- How does global advocacy play a role in Kiribati’s strategy to combat climate change?
- What alternative sources of drinking water are being developed in Kiribati?
- How is the Kiribati government promoting sustainable energy?
- What are some challenges associated with relocating Kiribati’s population?
Download the PDF to see the answers