As climate change accelerates and coastal erosion threatens Pacific Island shorelines, Ouvéa one of the Loyalty Islands in New Caledonia’s archipelago, is pioneering an effective, ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA). Through local leadership and community action, Ouvéa is showcasing how Nature-based Solutions (NbS) can strengthen climate resilience while preserving the island’s natural beauty.
Rising sea levels have disrupted the historical balance of sand movement on the beaches of Ouvéa. Natural sand replenishment, once reliable after cyclone seasons, is no longer guaranteed. Contributing to the problem are human activities like poor rainwater management along the roadside, sand and shell collection, brush clearing, and fires that strip away protective vegetation.
