Namdrik Atoll is a coral atoll in the Pacific Ocean that already suffers from climate change-induced impacts similar to those faced by other low-lying island states. The Local Resource Committee is therefore working to reduce dependence on declining fisheries and implement various agricultural and revegetation methods to improve food security, coastal resilience, and the well-being of marine species.

Nature-based Intervention:

The Namdrik Atoll Local Resources Committee, in an effort to improve community self-sufficiency, food security, and adaptive capacity, is increasing the use of traditional crops such as breadfruit, taro, and native pandanus. These efforts have reduced the recent increased dependence on imports for food. Furthermore, a pearl farm has been created to provide jobs for local community members. These combined efforts also serve to reduce community dependence on declining fisheries. Sustainable fisheries policies, seasonal no take zones, and shoreline vegetation restoration have been implemented in order to further improve the resilience of the coastal community and protect marine ecosystems. Improved rainwater harvesting techniques and the increased use of solar technology have also been adopted.

Overview of context and outcomes:

The Namdrik Atoll Local Resources Committee was established to implement a Resource Management Plan created in consultation with local community members. This Plan included a focus on managing the likely impacts of climate change facing this part of the low-lying island state of the Marshall Islands. The main issues identified included waste water management, declining fisheries, erosion, flooding, invasive species, threats to mangroves, and seasonal shifts.