Work

Development of small island vulnerability index to achieve sustainable development goals: Insight from Ternate Volcanic Island, Indonesia

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Small islands encounter distinct challenges concerning climate vulnerability stemming from their constrained resources and particular characteristics. This influences the evaluation of vulnerabilities and the ability to make adaptive decisions in response to climate-related threats. This investigation seeks to create a climate vulnerability index specifically for small island communities on Ternate Island to advance sustainable development goals. A climate vulnerability assessment tool was developed using a multidimensional approach to gather information on the exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity of communities across 60 villages on Ternate Island. The index was compiled using data sourced from official channels, including both local and central government entities. The index results indicate that 8 villages fall into the very low category, 11 villages are classified as low, 10 villages are in the medium category, 15 villages are categorized as high, and 16 villages are in the very high category. The results of this study carry significant policy implications, emphasizing vulnerability indicators associated with sustainable development objectives. Factors such as the size of the hazard zone, availability of water resources, health and sanitation facilities, poverty people, and the presence of financial institutions are intricately linked to Sustainable Development Goals 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, and 11. The study's findings serve as crucial information for the government and all relevant parties to develop and execute adaptation and mitigation strategies designed to tackle the climate change challenges small islands encounter. Local governments should initiate their programs by focusing on villages that exhibit very high and high vulnerability scores.

Source: Environmental Challenges

DOI: 10.1016/j.envc.2025.101132

Authors: Mohammad Ridwan Lessy, Jonatan Lassa, Kerstin Katharina Zander

Institutions: Charles Darwin University, Khairun University, GNS Science

Language: English

Topic: Climate Change, Adaptation, Migration

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Climate action, Sustainable cities and communities, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,140