From Extraction To Protection, Nauru’s Higher Ground Initiative And Climate Resilience

Nauru is turning a byproduct of its past overexploitation into a pathway for its future. The legacy of phosphate mining has rendered much of the island’s interior unusable for development, and has resulted in majority of development taking place bottomside (narrow low lying part of the island) alongside existing communities. However a lack of space, coupled with increased inundation events and storm surge related events development and living in bottomside is often describes as no longer a viable option : ‘We can’t keep building in Bottomside. The land is changing, the coast is eroding there is no space for us to move.’ In response to these challenges, Nauru’s Higher Ground Initiative (HGI) has emerged as a critical and strategic response to the escalating threats of climate change and rising sea levels that endanger these low-lying Pacific islands.

Figure X: The island-wide Master Plan offers a land use vision for the future development of the entire island of Nauru. (Taken from: https://www.cnu.org/higher-ground-initiative, Copyright: Metrocology Inc.)

The Higher Ground Initiative focuses on relocating the population and critical infrastructure from vulnerable coastal areas to the more elevated region known as Topside. Historically, Nauru’s economy was driven by phosphate mining, which concentrated homes and essential infrastructure in these susceptible coastal zones. The initiative aims not only to address this vulnerability but also to restore and develop the mined-out Topside area, creating a resilient future for Nauru.

However, the Higher Ground Initiative is more than just a physical retreat from the coastline. It envisions a transformative model of urban development that incorporates sustainable planning, reflecting both environmental and cultural resilience. The project includes plans for a Smart Village, which will focus on reducing energy demand, promoting urban agriculture, and minimizing the environmental footprint of human settlements. This approach not only mitigates climate risks but also seeks to celebrate and preserve Nauru’s cultural heritage by integrating traditional architectural designs and building materials. One local resident expressed their hope, saying, ‘We want to ensure our children have a safe place to live. Moving Topside gives us that hope.’

Additionally, the Smart Village and a newly proposed climate-resilient port facility will serve as hubs for regional economic activity. These developments are designed to foster economic growth by supporting value-added services for shipping and fishing vessels and encouraging the growth of eco-tourism. A fisherman highlighted the importance of these changes, stating, “If we can build our economy around sustainable practices, we can protect our culture and our future.” By creating these resilient and sustainable infrastructures, the Higher Ground Initiative positions Nauru as a leader in climate adaptation and sustainable development in the Pacific region.

Nevertheless, some residents have expressed concerns about the challenges of relocation. One elder remarked, ‘Leaving our homes in Bottomside is hard, but we know it’s necessary. We cannot ignore what is happening to our land.’ This sentiment underscores the emotional and cultural weight of moving from ancestral homes while recognizing the need for action.

In conclusion, the Higher Ground Initiative represents a vital step in safeguarding Nauru’s future by adapting to climate change, enhancing economic resilience, and preserving its cultural identity. Through strategic planning and collaborative efforts, Nauru is taking bold action to ensure its long-term survival and prosperity, with the community’s voices playing a crucial role in shaping this transformative journey.