1. SIDS are vital biodiversity hotspots.

SIDS host 40% of the world’s coral reefs, which are among the most biodiverse ecosystems globally. Occupying less than 0.5% of the Earth’s land surface, these islands are believed to support 20% of its terrestrial biodiversity, with many species unique to their locales.

Despite their ecological wealth, SIDS face numerous environmental challenges, including coral bleaching from warmer seas, coastal erosion, salinization and the threat of invasive species.

2. SIDS are disproportionately affected by climate change and biodiversity loss.

Positioned at the forefront of the climate and biodiversity emergencies, island states bear the brunt of rising sea levels, coral degradation and increasingly severe weather events. Caribbean islands, for instance, are seven times more likely to be hit by hurricanes compared to larger nations.

These environmental threats are interconnected, as the loss of critical ecosystems such as coral reefs, mangroves, and seagrass beds heightens their vulnerability to natural disasters.

3. The unique economic circumstances of SIDS must be considered.

SIDS are among the world’s most indebted nations, often due to factors beyond their control. The high costs associated with their isolation and small size mean that major investments, like constructing an airport, can amount to the entire GDP of a country. Frequent hurricanes exacerbate their economic challenges, with borrowing costs substantially higher than those in Europe or the USA.

The upcoming conference will emphasize strategies for fostering sustainable and diversified blue economies and improving financial accessibility.

4. SIDS are crucial custodians of both land and ocean.

SIDS oversee marine areas often 28 times greater than their land mass, making them pivotal in managing vast ocean expanses. This stewardship underscores the importance of considering these nations as “Large Ocean States”, reflecting their significant role in marine biodiversity protection, among others.

In many cases, traditional island cultures offer a deep understanding of marine and terrestrial ecosystems that are not well known to scientists. The importance of Indigenous and local knowledge in managing and conserving marine resources is now increasingly recognized, for example in the new BBNJ (Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction) agreement. Institutions like the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services also advocate for integrating this knowledge into broader ecosystem assessments.

5. SIDS are exceptionally innovative and resourceful.

Despite a modest population of just 65 million, SIDS have a significant impact on international negotiations. They played a key role in establishing the 1.5°C target in the Paris Agreement and are leaders in advancing understanding of the ocean’s influence on climate dynamics.

SIDS are often at the forefront of climate change adaptation, testing innovative approaches that benefit not only themselves but also the rest of the world. These efforts, capable of generating new business opportunities, are crucial and require financial support to realize their full potential.