Urbanization in small island states further increases climate risks, Kazuko Ishigaki, Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific at the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), said during the special session titled “Inclusive Urban Resilience, Blue Economy and Sustainable Tourism in Small Island Developing States” held within the framework of WUF13, APA-Economics reports.
She stated that rising sea levels, coastal erosion, the increase in climate-related natural disasters, small economies, limited connectivity and land shortages are among the main challenges faced by small island states.
Kazuko Ishigaki noted that these challenges are becoming even more acute against the backdrop of accelerating urbanization: “This process increases demand for housing, essential services, sustainable infrastructure and inclusive planning.”
According to her, increasing competition for land and public resources, as well as the frequent allocation of funds to eliminate the consequences of disasters, increases the need for long-term climate adaptation and sustainable development solutions.
The UN-Habitat official emphasized that cities are not only sources of risk, but also centers of innovation, strong cultural identity and community leadership. She noted that island states surrounded by oceans have great potential for the development of the blue economy and sustainable tourism.
Kazuko Ishigaki added that housing policy, land governance, climate adaptation, blue economy and sustainable tourism policies should be more closely integrated with one another. According to her, this goal can only be achieved through joint cooperation among governments, local communities, regional organizations, development partners, academic circles and the private sector.
