New UK funding is set to strengthen climate resilience across Pacific Island communities that are increasingly exposed to rising sea levels, extreme storms and environmental degradation. The support aims to help countries prepare for climate shocks, protect ecosystems, and build long-term resilience through locally led and practical solutions developed in partnership with Pacific governments, regional bodies and local communities.
The £14 million package builds on the UK’s ongoing Climate Action for a Resilient Asia (CARA) programme, which already supports initiatives in countries such as Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Tonga and Tuvalu. These efforts focus on nature-based solutions, stronger food systems, ocean protection and community-level disaster preparedness to reduce vulnerability and improve recovery after climate-related events.
UK Minister for the Indo-Pacific Seema Malhotra highlighted that Pacific nations are on the frontline of the climate crisis and stressed the importance of investing in locally driven solutions that enhance resilience, protect ecosystems and support sustainable economic growth. The approach prioritises empowering communities to respond effectively to climate challenges while strengthening long-term development outcomes.
The funding also aims to improve access to climate finance by supporting advisory capacity within Pacific governments, helping them better secure and manage funding for climate action. Previous UK-backed initiatives include supporting Fiji’s first blue bond, which raised FJD 100 million for sustainable livelihoods, marine protected areas and aquaculture programmes benefiting hundreds of farmers.
In addition, the initiative will enhance disaster preparedness through improved weather forecasting and early warning systems developed with the UK Met Office and the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme. It also supports regional disaster risk insurance mechanisms that enable faster recovery after extreme weather events, reducing long-term economic losses.
Alongside New Zealand, the UK has already contributed to a £23.9 million blended finance initiative designed to mobilise up to $100 million in private investment, supporting renewable energy projects across the Pacific and reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels while strengthening regional energy security
