Biodiversity loss

SIDS are dominated by tropical rain forests, wetlands such as mangroves, and coastal lagoons. Each of these ecosystems are storehouses for bio-diversity and significantly aid in water purification processes. Mangroves, in particular, play an important role, they act as nurseries for young fish and provide protection against coastal erosion and inland flooding. Biodiversity loss is occurring at a rapid rate on many SIDS. Habitat loss through the destruction of indigenous forests is the main cause of this loss.

In an effort to meet the growing demands of urbanization, forested areas are cleared for new housing and other development. Furthermore, commercial logging is heavily practiced on some SIDS and is a main source of revenue. In the case of the Solomon Islands logging has caused irreparable ecological damage. Initiatives to protect existing virgin forests and sustainable logging practices are highly needed.

The fragile coral reefs ecosystems that surround numerous islands are rich in diversity and of great importance. Reef ecosystems are put under high risk due to a combination of near-shore pollution and offshore over-harvesting. Bleaching of coral is causing further damage to these treasures of the sea. Reef ecosystems are increasingly undergoing bleaching due to unusually high temperatures that are possibly linked to global warming. Adequate coastal zone management plan are drastically needed.