by Martin affner Associate Editor In an extraordinary convergence of geology and climate science, researchers have traced a recent eruption that dramatically affected atmospheric conditions and even turned sunlight blue to a remote island in the Pacific Ocean. The event has raised questions about the interplay between natural disasters and climate systems, as well as…
by Martin Haffner Associate Editor A shocking new study has revealed a staggering 700% increase in natural disasters in the Pacific Islands region over the last decade, leaving experts reeling in their wake. The alarming trend has left scientists and policymakers scrambling to understand the causes behind this unprecedented spike and to develop effective strategies…
by Marton Haffner Associate Editor The Pacific will be the first in the world to welcome in the new year, with fireworks shows and outdoor gatherings planned. As the first major international centre to welcome in the New Year, the landmarks of New Zealand’s largest city Auckland will light up at midnight (1100 GMT Tuesday)….
by Martin Haffner Associate Editor 1. New Zealand’s Climate InitiativesNew Zealand has announced a new set of ambitious climate initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions by 50% by 2030. The initiatives include significant investments in renewable energy, particularly in wind and solar power, as well as plans to phase out coal-powered energy generation by 2025….
by Martin Haffner Associate Editor The A$140 million aid agreement between Australia and Nauru signed last week is a prime example of the geopolitical tightrope vulnerable Pacific nations are walking in the 21st century. The deal provides Nauru with direct budgetary support, stable banking services, and policing and security resources. In return, Australia will have…
by Martin Haffner Associate Editor The International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague has become a battleground in the global fight against climate change, as the Cook Islands, Marshall Islands, and Solomon Islands presented impassioned arguments urging the Court to recognise the legal obligations of States in addressing the climate crisis. Representing some of…
by Martin Haffner Associate Editor Voters have until 5pm today (03 December) to register to vote in the Snap Election on 14 January 2025, including the by-election for the Northern Ward Constituency of the Port Vila City Council (PVCC). Citizens who have recently turned 18, those who are 18 but have not yet registered, and…
by Martin Haffner Associate Editor A new bill introduced by U.S rep Ed Case, Democratic party -Hawaii, and 11 other Congressional colleagues proposed to strengthen ties with Indo-Pacific nations via engagement with civil society organisations, refining overall communications strategies, promoting free media and supporting workforce development. “Successive administrations and Congresses have recognized that no region…
by Martin Haffner Associate Editor Pacific Island leaders have tried almost everything—from giving speeches in knee-deep seawater, to shouting and crying —to draw attention to the impacts of climate change on their nations. But as their attempts to spark drastic action have been met by slow-moving international climate negotiationsand the continued use of fossil fuels, interest in…
by Martin Haffner Associate Editor The Western Pacific Region of the World Health Organisation (WHO) is getting healthier compared to other regions and was the least affected by Covid-19 deaths in the first two years, but the incidence of non-communicable diseases is rising due to increased smoking and drinking of alcohol. This mix of good…