Island nations are already on the front lines of the climate change war, having recognized the immediacy and severity of the consequences they face. There is a strategic opportunity for islands to serve as demonstration sites for the technologies and infrastructure that are needed to achieve climate stabilization, while also meeting their energy challenges.
Renewable energy, electric transit, and sustainable food production are all technologies that could be developed and demonstrated on islands, providing blueprints for cities elsewhere and potential economic dividends for the island. Deployment and test sites are needed for these technologies.
A lead-by-example strategy to convert islands to net-zero carbon economies by 2020 could catalyze significant net-zero carbon development in other parts of the world while benefitting the island economies.
Millions of tourists visit the islands each year, providing an opportunity to educate these visitors not only about the consequences of climate change but also technology solutions.
Market-based Approaches
The high cost of imported energy on most islands makes renewable energy and transport alternatives cost effective. The security angle is also important for countries that rely on imported energy.
Tourism is already the principal industry in many of these countries and could be enhanced through technology showcases for global leaders interested in transforming cities and regions to low-carbon, as well as tours for visitors. The demonstration of net-zero energy practices could become part of the tourism attraction.
Private companies are investigating alternative energy and transport solutions, including solar electricity and electric cars, for islands.