Fiji faces the brunt of climate change impacts, says Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport Ro Filipe Tuisawau.

Officiating at World Meteorological Day in Nadi recently Ro Filipe said like many other small island states, Fiji was also experiencing rising sea levels to more frequent and severe weather events. “Our islands are not immune to the devastating effects of climate change,” he said.

“And this is evident in recent years as we witness firsthand the destruction wrought by tropical cyclones, floods and droughts.

“These events have not only caused loss of lives and livelihoods but have also threatened the very existence of our communities and cultures.” Ro Filipe said, however, that in the face of adversity, the people have shown resilience and determination.

“We have come together to rebuild and adapt, harnessing the power of science and technology to strengthen our defenses against climate-related disasters.

“As we gather here today, we stand at the frontline of climate action confronted by the challenges posed by our changing weather patterns and environment.”

Ro Filipe said the Fiji Meteorological Services office Nadi played a critical role in the campaign against climate change.

“Providing us with vital information and early warnings to help us prepare and respond effectively.

“The battle against climate change is far from over. As we confront the unprecedented challenges ahead, we must redouble our efforts and commit to bold and decisive action.”

Ro Filipe said on the international front, the Prime Minister last year delivered a compelling national statement at the COP28 leaders summit, emphasising the critical need for urgent and transformative action to combat the escalating climate crisis.

“The Prime Minister stressed the imperative of acting with urgency, stating that failure to do so would inevitably result in surpassing the 1.5 degrees Celsius temperature limit, a threshold deemed critical for the survival of Pacific nations.”