After watching the assigned video entitled ‘Kiribati: The Sinking Islands Being Destroyed by Climate Change’ I have now become aware of, yet another beautiful area affected by global warming. In this week’s blog prompt, I have been hypothetically tasked by the countries government to help find ways to mitigate these current issues. Firstly, I would like to point out the importance and power that carrying out research can have on advancing a particular study. In this case, pushing research in this area could prove to be valuable is several ways, such as assessing timelines, providing explanations, and encouraging solutions. Thus, there is a great deal of power within the research!
Roles of Objectivity, Subjectivity, and Intersubjectivity
Secondly, drawing focus on the issue while considering the roles of objectivity, subjectivity, and intersubjectivity; there are a few points that come to mind. Objectively speaking, I would simply lean on the facts of the matter; helping develop an understanding that the situation is very real and the severity that the actual research shows. Subjectively speaking, I would have to consider my personal interpretation though the connection that I would develop with the citizens. Attempting to understand their particular situation, which would provide even more motivation to assist them. Finally, I would then link both the current issue with the emotional value that has been provided in order to make change. At this point the motivation to make change would certainly be present, the only thing left to do would be to work with others (whether it be government workers or external helpers) to attempt to invoke major change.
There are many geographical approaches that fit well in this particular situation; but in my opinion there are two that really stand out. I believe that cultural/historical perspectives play a major role in this case as the locals explained the great value that both the buildings and land held. This is a place with great ancestral value, being forced away would pose a true threat to their culture. Secondly, the topic of social geography should also be mentioned to consider both the native society as well as our society as outsiders looking in. Noting that many here in North America are less concerned with issues that don’t directly impact them directly. Thus, working out ways to stress the importance of the matter and why this issue will affect them in coming years if it is not resolved. For example, explaining to Americans living in the southern states along the Atlantic that after Kiribati sinks Florida could be next.
In my opinion, this situation is already in need of dire help. With that being said, I believe that the solution will require assistance from more than just the natives in Kiribati. Therefore, I stress the importance of awareness, as well as funding and change from others around the world. Everyone needs to play their role in limiting carbon emissions; which can be done in several different ways. I would also work to ensure that the world became aware of the current issue, potentially through social media platforms and new reports. I feel as if there is no hope for the island county if the only effort to save the land are poorly funded temporary barriers. With proper research, funded protective measures, and global changes in halting global warming; saving the county of Kiribati may still be possible.
AJ+ (Director). (2014, December 8). Kiribati: The Sinking Islands Being Destroyed By Climate Change[Video file]. Retrieved January 18, 2021, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9P7jXveokDY
Anote Tong, M. (2019, April 01). Opinion | Our island is disappearing but the president refuses to act. Retrieved January 24, 2021, from https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/theworldpost/wp/2018/10/24/kiribati/
