Climate Change Impacting Small Island Developing States (SIDS)

Small Island developing states are facing significant challenges in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. These challenges are primarily driven by increasing population and climate change risks, which are exacerbating the unique vulnerabilities of these island nations.

1: Dimension-Characteristics of SIDS

• Geographic Distribution: SIDS are scattered across the Caribbean Sea, Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans, comprising 39 nations.
• Recognition and Vulnerability: Recognized as a distinct group at the 1992 UN Conference on Environment and Development, SIDS' vulnerabilities were underscored in "The Future We Want" document from the Rio+20 conference in 2012. Their small size, remoteness, limited resources, and exposure to global environmental and economic shocks make them particularly susceptible to climate change impacts and natural disasters.

2: Dimension: Challenges to Achieving SDGs

• Population Growth: Several SIDS, including Comoros, Guinea-Bissau, Sao Tome and Principe, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu, are experiencing rapid population growth, outpacing the global average of 1.07%. The combined population of these nations is projected to increase from 71 million to 78 million by 2030 and 87 million by 2050. This growth puts additional strain on their already limited resources and infrastructure.
• Climate Change: SIDS are highly vulnerable to climate change effects, such as rising sea levels, increased climate variability, and more frequent and intense natural disasters. These factors pose significant threats to their development and sustainability.
• Geographical Factors: Approximately one-third of the population in SIDS lives on land that is less than five meters above sea level, making them extremely susceptible to sea-level rise, storm surges, and coastal erosion.

3: Dimension- Impact of Climate Change on SIDS

• Low Emissions, High Impact: Although SIDS contribute only 1% of global greenhouse gas emissions, they are among the first to experience severe climate change impacts. This disproportionate effect underscores the vulnerability of these nations.
• Agriculture and Fisheries: Climate change is adversely affecting agricultural production and fisheries, which are crucial for the livelihoods and economies of SIDS. Declining productivity in these sectors threatens food security and economic stability.
• Extreme Weather: Increased frequency and severity of extreme weather events are causing significant damage to land, real estate, and infrastructure in SIDS. These events have economically devastating effects, as highlighted by the UN Environment Programme.
• Tourism: Tourism is a major economic driver for many SIDS, but climate change is negatively impacting this sector. Fear of violent and life-threatening storms discourages tourists from visiting these islands, leading to economic losses.

UPSC Mains Questions

Q.Discuss the unique vulnerabilities of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the context of climate change. How do their geographical and demographic characteristics contribute to these vulnerabilities?