The Fiji Bureau of Statistics (FBOS) is making a significant advancement in the area of climate data by compiling its first official climate change statistics. This initiative aims to fortify the country’s climate data systems in response to pressing environmental challenges. To facilitate this important work, FBOS is hosting a two-day National Workshop focused on Advancing Climate Change-Related Statistics, where policymakers, researchers, and sector officials are gathering to evaluate existing efforts and enhance the quality of climate data.
FBOS Chief Executive Officer Kemueli Naiqama has emphasized the collaborative nature of this project, highlighting that it is part of an ongoing partnership with the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). This collaboration, which began last year, seeks to adopt a comprehensive government approach to gather climate data that encompasses various sectors, including the environment, economy, infrastructure, and public health.
Naiqama noted, “Climate change is not an abstract issue for us; it’s a lived experience for every Fijian.” He underscored that high-quality climate statistics are essential for understanding the transformations occurring within the nation, identifying vulnerable populations, and determining the most effective strategies for response.
This workshop serves a critical purpose, highlighting the necessity for reliable data to support climate resilience initiatives and development planning. As Fiji strengthens its climate data capabilities, the country is not only addressing its immediate data gaps but also aligning itself with broader regional and international efforts aimed at impactful climate action. Such initiatives echo a previous report from the Bureau, which showcased troubling gaps in the tracking of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) indicators, with substantial percentages still unmonitored due to insufficient data.
Fiji’s efforts to enhance its capacity for data-driven decision-making come at a pivotal time. With the increasing frequency and intensity of climate-related disasters in the region, there is a growing recognition of the need for actionable data that informs policies and promotes resilience. The ongoing workshops and collaborations illustrate Fiji’s commitment to making informed, timely decisions that can lead to sustainable developments.
As the nation progresses on this vital front, there is optimism that these foundational steps in climate data gathering will support not just Fiji’s climate resilience but also serve as a model for other small island nations facing similar challenges. By leveraging improved data systems and fostering inter-agency collaboration, Fiji is laying the groundwork for a more resilient future in the face of climate change.