The Anuta people of the Solomon Islands live on 37 hectares of land and depend entirely on marine resources for their survival. To adapt to climate change, they build breakwaters to block incoming waves during cyclones or high waves, protecting their homes and their most important asset on Anuta Island, the outrigger fishing canoes. Credit: Zahiyd Namo/Solomon Islands
IPS Correspondent (Pacific Islands)
Inter press service
PACIFIC ISLANDS, Aug 8 (IPS) – The winning photos from the Pacific Community Photo Contest show the devastating impacts of climate change on beautiful yet sensitive environments, and document some of the most pressing issues facing island communities today.
This image will be used to illustrate the implications of climate change for fisheries and aquaculture in the Pacific Islands region in a forthcoming book. The Australian and New Zealand governments have supported a team of international experts who have chosen to work with SPC.
IPS is pleased to announce today a selection of these award-winning photos.
Sinking Kobe Island. For thousands of people, the islands in the Kobe area were a place to call home. As the population grew, more homes were built on the water. But with poor infrastructure and shrinking land area, their homes are now threatened by rising sea levels and unpredictable weather patterns. Credit: Tiana Lyman/Papua New Guinea At low tide, an i-Taukei fisherman gathers shellfish along the Nasese breakwater, a tradition weathered by time and tides. Her resilience reflects how Pacific communities are battling rising sea levels and changing ecosystems, and shows the close link between climate change and traditional fishing. Credit: Josh Kuilamu/Fiji A fisherman casts his net on a muddy and silty reef, highlighting the stark impacts of climate change in East Kwaio, Yuru Harbour, Malaita Province, Solomon Islands. Rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns are causing silt to build up, disrupting fishing and aquaculture, threatening marine ecosystems and traditional livelihoods that depend on fishing. Credit: Zorik Olangi/Solomon Islands As the waters rise, nature and people are at risk. Trees cannot grow because of the salt, so there is no protection. This photo warns us about the impact of climate change on our islands and atolls. It is a clear signal that we must act to keep the world safe. Credit: Gitty Keziah Yee/Tuvalu
