Adaptation in locally managed marine areas in Fiji

Abstract

[Extract] On small islands, adaptive management and planning is the cornerstone for survival. Climate change is putting additional stress on islands’ limited resources, thereby threatening livelihoods. The need for local solutions that are flexible and responsive to the local context is paramount.\ud \ud The Republic of Fiji has recently gained valuable experience with local adaptive management. In an archipelago of more than 300 islands in the South Pacific Ocean, Fijians have learned to coexist with the ocean for centuries and to make a living through the management of limited resources. As the sea level rises and severe storms become more frequent and damaging due to the changing climate, this management is being put to the test