After months of anticipation regarding U.S. federal funding, the Pacific Islands Climate Adaptation Science Centre (PI-CASC) officially ceased operations last week, marking a significant setback in the efforts for climate research and adaptation in the Pacific region. Originally established in 2012 through a collaborative partnership involving the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, and the University of Guam, PI-CASC was one of nine regional climate hubs set up with support from the U.S. Geological Survey under the Department of the Interior (DOI).
In February, the centre applied for a $10 million federal grant intended to sustain its operations over the following five years. Unfortunately, despite past successes in securing funding, the DOI did not approve this application, leading to a funding lapse as of October 1. Darren Lerner, the executive director of PI-CASC, expressed disappointment over the DOI’s lack of communication about the funding stalling and the uncertain future for operational capabilities.
The repercussions of this closure have already begun to unfold, with six staff members actively seeking new job opportunities and 14 graduate students losing financial support for their research projects. Lerner indicated that even if the DOI were to approve funding immediately, it would likely take months before any financial aid might be reflected on the campuses.
This development is reflective of a broader trend concerning diminished financial support for critical climate initiatives throughout the Pacific. In a similar vein, the Pacific Resilience Facility (PRF) has also recently faced funding cuts from the U.S., jeopardizing essential climate resilience projects across the region. Leaders like Baron Waqa, Secretary-General of the Pacific Islands Forum, have underscored the urgent need for diversified partnerships and alternative funding sources with countries such as Australia, Japan, and New Zealand to mitigate the impact of the U.S. withdrawal.
Notwithstanding these challenges, there is still hope for enhanced regional cooperation and resilience. The closure of PI-CASC offers an opportunity for Pacific nations to unite in the pursuit of innovative solutions to their climate challenges and to cultivate relationships with alternative partners. This shifting landscape could also pave the way for collaboration with other international stakeholders dedicated to tackling the urgent issues brought on by climate change. As Pacific nations move through this challenging phase, a collective approach may indeed provide them with greater autonomy over their developmental goals and foster a renewed commitment to building sustainable futures.