Challenges to freshwater security in the Pacific Small Island Developing States:Focus on saltwater intrusion in Samoa

Pacific Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are facing mounting challenges to protect and efficiently manage their limited freshwater resources. There are many facets to ensuring freshwater security in SIDS, which the Samoa case study illustrates. Among these, saltwater intrusion into aquifers stemming from climate change and human-related causes is emerging as a critical challenge. Although they are broadly acknowledged, gaps in data prevent a reliable and detailed assessment of the country’s current vulnerability to this problem and its extent. In response, the integrated water management and governance frameworks have been significantly improved. However, the complex setting, where traditional and legal structures are intertwined, and fragmented water governance hinder the decision-making process. The scale of future water-related challenges will depend on how well the current commitments set in national strategy documents are translated into actions and on better enforcement of legislation. Investment and enhancement of human and technical capacity related to water science and resources assessment and sustaining national public awareness campaigns need to be considered key priorities in this process.

Sustainable Development Goals:

Clean Water and Sanitation