Rising Sea Levels Threaten Coastal Communities in Guinea-Bissau

In Guinea-Bissau, rising sea levels threaten coastal villages like Djobel, driving residents into poverty as seawater destroys farmland and contaminates drinking water. Despite low greenhouse gas emissions, these communities suffer disproportionately from the impacts of climate change. Efforts to relocate villagers face opposition, highlighting issues of climate justice and the need for global support.

Rising sea levels are profoundly impacting coastal villages in Guinea-Bissau, particularly Djobel, which now teeters on the brink of disappearance. The influx of seawater is destroying farmland, contaminating drinking sources, and displacing residents into dire poverty. Although Guinea-Bissau contributes minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions, its communities are disproportionately experiencing the harsh consequences of climate change, underscoring the urgent need for climate justice.

Guinea-Bissau, one of West Africa’s poorest nations, is facing severe challenges due to climate change, specifically rising sea levels. With approximately 70% of its 2.1 million population living in poverty, many villagers engage in semi-farming and fishing. The effects of global warming, including heightened rainfall and storm surges, have intensified since the start of the century, leading to catastrophic living conditions for its coastal communities.

The plight of the residents of Djobel exemplifies the injustices faced by communities with minimal contributions to climate change. Despite efforts to relocate those affected inland, resistance from neighboring villages has thwarted these plans. As Guinea-Bissau’s environmental situation continues to deteriorate, the international community must act to ensure climate justice and support vulnerable populations in mitigating the impacts of climate change.

Original Source: www.weforum.org