The New Caledonian government is intensifying efforts to adapt to climate change as the Pacific territory experiences increasingly severe impacts, from rising sea levels and wildfires to extreme heat and flooding.
Climate scientists have confirmed that 2024 was the hottest year on record, and with global temperatures having already risen over 1.3 Degree Celsius in New Caledonia over the past 50 years, local authorities are acting urgently. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) recently declared that the Paris Agreement’s goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 Degree Celsius is now out of reach.
“These alarming signals encourage us to redouble our efforts to combat these changes, which threaten our lifestyles, our ecosystems, and our economy,” the New Caledonian government said in a statement.
In response, New Caledonia has adopted a comprehensive Climate Change Strategy, officially approved by Congress on 29 April 2025. The strategy is the result of an inclusive process launched in 2024, involving more than 110 experts and over 2,700 public contributions. It outlines adaptation priorities across five sectors: agriculture and food transition, infrastructure and buildings, territorial planning and development, ecosystem preservation, and daily life.
To sustain the momentum, the government—together with the University of New Caledonia (UNC)—will host the second edition of the Caledonian Climate Change Forum this year. The inaugural forum in April 2024 drew more than 400 participants at the Origin Cinema in Dumbéa.
"The government is implementing the New Caledonian Climate Change Strategy, which has just been passed by Congress," said Jérémie Katidjo Monnier. "It is essential that all stakeholders be able to share their experiences and projects, and that we find ways together to deploy this strategy across the country.
Monnier said that the success of this strategy depends in particular on all stakeholders sharing the most recent data in order to adapt their initiatives.
This year’s forum will feature roundtable discussions led by institutional officials, scientists, business representatives and community actors. Afternoon sessions will include focused mini-seminars on research, nature-based adaptation, sustainable agriculture, water management, and youth engagement.
"This forum is, of course, open to all Caledonians who have questions about climate change. They will be able to get answers from experts and stakeholders who work on this issue on a daily basis," added the government official.
A youth-focused platform will also allow young Caledonians to express their views directly to decision-makers. Alongside the sessions, a “village” of exhibitions and stands will showcase local associations and organisations working on practical climate adaptation initiatives.
The government’s commitment reflects a growing consensus in the region that climate adaptation is no longer optional but essential. As the Pacific faces rising environmental threats, New Caledonia hopes its strategy and inclusive approach will serve as a model for island resilience.
Participation in the round tables and seminars is by registration by clicking on the following link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdWKD8fpBaQ9frD7u0A1Kw6wEAY6Hb-RpmeI39Sq2nUsqVVZA/viewform
