Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Western Indian Ocean Journal of Marine Science

Abstract

Adaptation to climate change is critical in countries like Mauritius which, despite contributing a minute percentage to the world’s emissions, is disproportionately vulnerable to their impacts. Rising temperatures are exacerbating the problems of coral reef bleaching, soil and beach erosion, a greater risk of drought and flash floods, intensifying tropical storms, sea level rise and biodiversity impacts. Projections of accelerated warming only increase the urgency for a coordinated framework of adaptive governance in Mauritius. The nature of adaptation needed will require a complex, long-term, and interdisciplinary process of widespread engagement, necessitating effective institutions with shared responsibilities. This paper describes how state and non-state entities have worked to assess impacts and vulnerabilities, facilitate coordination, manage information and establish priorities to build Mauritius’ resilience to climate change. Recent progress has been made to establish an institutional framework for adaptation in governance, but challenges remain, especially in coordination, project implementation at the local level and capacity building among all stakeholders.

DOI

10.4314/wiojms.v11i1

Publication Date

2012

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