The Namdrik Atoll Local Resource Committee has undertaken activities in shoreline rehabilitation, rainwater harvesting, solar power provision and food security, while jointly promoting community-based adaptation to climate change.

"Namdrik demonstrates the power of local action," said Republic of the Marshall Islands President Christopher J. Loeak. He further stated, "We're very proud of Namdrik's success. This goes to show that resilience starts at the grassroots."

The Namdrik Atoll Local Resources Committee was one of 25 award winners selected from 812 nominations that were submitted by 113 developing countries. Winners from the Pacific Island countries included Fiji (the Sisi Initiative Site Support Group), RMI (Namdrik Atoll Local Resource Committee), and the Solomon Islands (Tetepare Descendant's Association).

In addition to winning the 2012 Equator Prize (US$5,000 monetary award), Namdrik also won a thematic award in community-based adaptation (US $15,000 monetary award). The thematic award winners were chosen from the 25 Equator Prize awardees.

"Serious coastal erosion caused by sea level rise is already occurring in all of our atolls," said Namdrik Mayor Clarence Luther who received the award on behalf of Namdrik Atoll Local Resource Committee. He further said, "We cannot afford to wait so community engagement is very important."

President Christopher J. Loeak celebrated Namdrik's achievement along with other leaders and supporters of sustainable development at the high level event during the Rio +20 United Nation's Conference on Sustainable Development.

To view more information on the 2012 Equator Award winners, check out http://www.equatorinitiative.org

(Pictures: Namdrik Mayor Luther receiving Equator Award from UNDP Administrator Helen Clark)

- RMI Office of the President, Majuro, Marshall Islands

Print

Picture gallery