Palau's vice-president has told the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) that the climate crisis is putting pressure on its food security and economic stability.
"The global response to climate change is a matter of life and death," Uduch Sengebau Senior told global leaders at the 79th Session of the UNGA in New York on Thursday morning (Wednesday NY time).
She said Palau, like many others, has to confront unique challenges that threaten its economic development, its environment, and its people's survival.
She said while SIDS (small island developing states) contribute less than one percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, they were the most impacted by the climate crisis.
"Palau has experienced the unmistakable signs of climate change firsthand," she said.
"More intense storms, landslides, and prolonged droughts are becoming the new normal. The ripple effects of climate disasters globally have caused the cost of imported goods to skyrocket, further jeopardising our food security and economic stability."
Senior said sea-level rise was one of the most urgent challenges for SIDS.
"Many of our islands sit just a few meters above sea level, leaving us vulnerable to coastal erosion, flooding, and storm surges.
"This is not only a present threat but an existential crisis for future generations.
She noted that Palau was taking steps to relocate critical infrastructure, including its national hospital and schools, to protect its people from rising waters and climate-related disasters.
She said while "adaptation is vital for our survival", mitigation was equally important.
"Palau is committed to reducing carbon emissions and transitioning to renewable energy."
Solar, wind, and ocean energy provide opportunities to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels and secure a cleaner, more sustainable future, she said.
"We must unite to confront the existential threat of climate change, protect our oceans, and ensure that no nation-no matter how small-is left behind.
"We must prioritise science, conservation, and the well-being of our people."
UN Security Council seat
Palau also advocated for reform at the UN Security Council (UNSC), calling for "equitable representation".
The UNSC is composed of 15 members; five permanent members, including China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the US; and 10 non-permanent members, who are elected for two-year terms by the UNGA.
Senior said the Council "must evolve to meet today's
Realities" and it was essential to include permanent and non-permanent members.
"The world has changed dramatically since the United Nations was founded," she said.
Palau has thrown its support for Japan's bid for a permanent seat at the UNSC and wants SIDS to also be represented on the Council.