The Cook Islands is a nation in the South Pacific. Its 15 islands are scattered over a vast area. The small islands state the country undertook a preliminary TNA, analysing which technologies could strengthen climate resilience in key sectors, e.g. waste and transport for mitigation, and coastal zones and agriculture for adaptation, respectively. Now, the country seeks to conduct a complete TNA updating its priorities and developing actionable pathways for technology implementation and diffusion.
The Cook Islands are a Polynesian Small Island Developing State, located in the South Pacific. The country consists of 15 islands that are scattered over two main archipelagos. Given their remote location and low laying terrain, the Cook Islands are critically exposed to the impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels, increasing ocean temperatures, and more intense and frequent extreme weather events. Sea-level rise poses a severe risk to the low-lying atolls and coastal areas, leading to coastal erosion, saltwater intrusion into freshwater lenses, and potential displacement of communities. Warmer ocean temperatures can cause coral bleaching, threatening the health of coral reefs, which are vital for marine biodiversity and local livelihoods, especially fisheries and tourism. Additionally, the increased intensity of cyclones and extreme weather events can result in substantial economic and infrastructural damage.
In NDC, the Cook Islands have committed to an ambitious climate action plan. The Cook Islands aim to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2030, significantly reducing their reliance on imported fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. The country also prioritizes enhancing energy efficiency across various sectors and promoting sustainable land use practices to further mitigate emissions.
Adaptation measures are equally critical for the Cook Islands to safeguard against the adverse impacts of climate change. Key strategies include strengthening coastal defences, improving water resource management, and developing climate-resilient infrastructure. The Cook Islands are also focusing on protecting and restoring natural ecosystems, such as mangroves and coral reefs, which provide vital buffers against climate impacts.
Based on the Cook Islands NDC and national development plans, the country undertook a preliminary TNA, analysing which technologies could strengthen climate resilience in key sectors, e.g. waste and transport for mitigation, and coastal zones and agriculture for adaptation, respectively. Building on this early assessment, the Cook Islands are currently in the process of revising their TNA, updating its priorities and developing actionable pathways for technology implementation and diffusion.
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