Tonga is developing a resilience plan to protect the historic Sia Heu Lupe site from climate change impacts.
The Pacific Climate Change Centre (PCCC), in collaboration with the University of Melbourne, is leading efforts to assess vulnerabilities and formulate a comprehensive resilience strategy for the Popua Peninsula and Sia Heu Lupe sites in Nuku’alofa. These areas, renowned for their cultural and ecological significance, face increasing risks from rising sea levels and extreme weather events.
From April 22 to 26, 2024, the PCCC team engaged with key Tongan ministries, including the Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change and Communications (MEIDECC), Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, Ministry of Infrastructure, and Ministry of Tourism. The discussions aimed to gather insights and foster collaboration for the development of an integrated climate resilience master plan.
The initiative is part of the PCCC’s broader Blue and Green Township Initiatives, which focus on urban climate resilience planning across Pacific Island countries. The approach emphasizes cross-sectoral engagement, integrating urban planning, heritage conservation, and nature-based solutions.
The Sia Heu Lupe site, a star-shaped complex of ancient pigeon snaring mounds connected by raised walkways, dates back approximately 500–600 years and holds national historic significance. Archaeological investigations by W.C. McKern in the 1920s and Dirk Spennemann in 1987 have highlighted its cultural importance.
The resilience plan will incorporate scientific assessments of climate change impacts while promoting inclusive, community-driven engagement. This aligns with Tonga’s national climate resilience goals and the Joint National Action Plan on Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Management (JNAP2) 2018–2028.
The project receives funding support from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), reflecting Australia’s commitment to enhancing climate resilience in the Indo-Pacific region.
By safeguarding its cultural heritage through proactive climate adaptation measures, Tonga aims to preserve its identity and history for future generations.
