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CLIMATE CHANGE EXPLAINED
INTRODUCTION The contemporary challenge posed by climate change is of global concern. The destructive impacts have, and will, touch all nations and populations. Yet, although climate change affects all, it does not affect all equally. Nor are the capacities to respond to the challenges in equal distribution. The small states and territories of the world are some of those most affected and at risk, in particular those under the grouping small island developing states (SIDS). These are a distinct set of small islands and low-lying coastal countries and territories, recognised by the international community as facing specific social, economic and environmental vulnerabilities. Characterised by small populations and geographic isolation, they also contend with resource constraints that affect their ability to effectively protect against such vulnerabilities. With SIDS combined population of around 65 million, contributing less than 1 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, they have, and will, suffer disproportionately from the damaging impacts of climate change. For parliamentarians embarking on climate change action, the scale of the challenges faced may seem daunting. Resource and capacity issues faced by decision-makers in small states, which constrain their capacity to act are one prohibitive factor. In addition, parliamentarians may regard climate change as the purview of governments, with their ability to have influence limited. However, they play an important role. Through their oversight, lawmaking and representative responsibilities parliamentarians can ensure that climate change is prioritised by the executive whilst driving change directly. Parliamentarians are thus an important actor to increasing ability of small states to adapt to the impacts of climate change and becoming global leaders in reducing emissions.
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CLIMATE CHANGE AND SMALL STATES
