Given the low elevation of its coral atolls, the Marshall Islands is especially vulnerable to the effects of rising sea levels, which include loss of land, flooding and saltwater intrusion of underground water lenses. Added to this, rising temperatures, an increase in extreme temperature and rainfall events, and changes in humidity are all having an adverse impact on the growth of crops and trees and the prevalence of water, food and vector-borne diseases.

Focusing on the people living in the Delap-Uliga-Darrit communities in Majuro and in the communities in Jaluit, the project will adopt a participatory and inclusive approach that addresses the vulnerabilities and the rights of all residents. Skills in climate resilience will be enhanced, particularly for island council members and community leaders.

Food security measures will focus on increasing the availability of food crops by training community members to prune and replant fruit trees, remove senile trees and create home gardening at the household and school level.

Health measures will include healthy cooking classes, setting up exercise clubs with targeted activities for different groups, and the regular monitoring of basic health indicators.

These community activities will be supported at a national level through the development of a climate change and health policy and action plan.