UN Conference on Small Island Developing States
Sep 1, 2014
Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are some of the countries on the frontline in the global fight against human-induced climate change. They represent the ‘canary in the coalmine’ for our collective efforts to mitigate and adapt to the effects of greenhouse gas emissions in the future. For SIDS, coping with the effects of climate change is an already tangible reality. For some, rising sea levels are becoming a threat to their very existence.
The Third United Nations Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS) is taking place from September 1-4 in Apia, Samoa. This gathering of UN agencies, governments, civil society and NGOs marks a crucial opportunity for the international community to find lasting solutions to the complex and often unique issues faced by SIDS.
The stories presented here offer some insight into those problems, as well as the work being undertaken by UNDP through several partnerships to assist SIDS in achieving sustainable development solutions for their citizens.
Our work with SIDS from Haiti to Fiji
-
São Tomé and Príncipe: Early warning systems protect farmers and fishermen
Storm surges, rains, flash floods, and increasing fog and wind are creating hazardous conditions for fishermen and farmers alike. more
-
Collecting rain to address Maldives' water shortage
Years of population growth, ineffective sewage systems, and encroaching salt water have made the groundwater unsafe to use. more
-
Watershed projects build climate change resilience in Haiti
Finding dependable, clean water has always been a challenge for the people of Haiti. But in recent years, climate change has exacerbated the problem. more
-
Small micro-hydropower plants provide energy to the 4% of the country's population excluded from the national power grid. more
-
Reaching for the sun: Unlocking solar energy for Samoa
Samoa is harnessing the sun with three new solar energy systems, supplying renewable power to 800 homes. more