<
https://theconversation.com/why-pacific-islanders-are-staying-put-even-as-rising-seas-flood-their-homes-and-crops-195100>
"Climate change is forcing people around the world to abandon their homes. In
the Pacific Islands, rising sea levels are leaving communities facing tough
decisions about relocation. Some are choosing to stay in high-risk areas.
Our research investigated this phenomenon, known as “voluntary immobility”.
The government of Fiji has identified around 800 communities that may have to
relocate due to climate change impacts (six have already been moved). One of
these is the village on Serua Island, which was the focus of our study.
Coastal erosion and flooding have severely damaged the village over the past
two decades. Homes have been submerged, seawater has spoiled food crops and the
seawall has been destroyed. Despite this, almost all of Serua Island’s
residents are choosing to stay.
We found their decision is based on “Vanua”, an Indigenous Fijian word that
refers to the interconnectedness of the natural environment, social bonds, ways
of being, spirituality and stewardship of place. Vanua binds local communities
to their land."
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
