Overview

Overall, the most appropriate and effective adaptation measures and strategies are most likely to be those that will be beneficial even in the absence of climate and sea-level change. Such measures and strategies could be considered as “no regrets” adaptation options. Therefore, in the first instance, the capacity of the Marshall Islands to adapt to the effects of climate and sea-level change will largely be determined by its ability to address on-going environmental, social and economic problems. Adaptation includes three main types of activities. First, there are adaptive actions that include activities targeted at specific sectors where climate change effects have been identified. Second, another group of adaptive measures are equally important and include general policies and actions by government to address some of the social driving forces of environmental problems which will heighten vulnerability to climate change effects. Third, it is also important to increase the capabilities of the Marshall Islands to effectively implement adaptations.

  • National Communication (NC)

  • Contribute to the ALM: Submit an Assessment

    Key Vulnerabilities
    • Agriculture/Food Security
    • Coastal Zones and Marine Ecosystems
    • Water Resources
    • Public Health
    • Fisheries
    Potential Adaptation Measures

    Agriculture and Food Security

    • Switch to different cultivars
    • Develop new crops

    Water Resources

    • Increase water supply, e.g. by using groundwater, building reservoirs, improving or stabilizing watershed management, desalination
    • Decrease water demands, e.g. by increasing efficiency, reducing water losses, water recycling, changing irrigation practices

    Coastal Zones and Marine Ecosystems

    • Develop planning/new investment requirements
    • Protect, including building sea walls, and beach nourishment