Climate change poses significant challenges to Vanuatu’s tourism sector, a vital contributor to its economy. Rising sea levels threaten the islands’ coastlines, eroding beaches and submerging coastal infrastructure, which are central to the nation’s appeal for tourists. Increasingly severe tropical cyclones disrupt tourism infrastructure, from accommodations to transport facilities, making the island less accessible and less appealing for visitors. Coral bleaching, exacerbated by warmer seas, degrades Vanuatu’s reefs, reducing marine biodiversity and impacting activities like snorkeling and diving, which are key attractions. Additionally, changes in rainfall patterns and freshwater scarcity risk altering the island’s lush landscapes, further diminishing its scenic beauty and appeal. These environmental impacts not only endanger tourism revenues but also impact local communities who depend on the industry for livelihoods. Addressing these challenges requires climate-resilient infrastructure, sustainable tourism practices, and global cooperation to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and protect Vanuatu’s fragile environment.

