{"id":76448,"date":"2024-12-13T14:11:43","date_gmt":"2024-12-13T14:11:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lse.ac.uk\/granthaminstitute\/?post_type=news&#038;p=76448"},"modified":"2024-12-13T14:13:52","modified_gmt":"2024-12-13T14:13:52","slug":"small-island-developing-states-need-innovative-forms-of-finance-to-bridge-the-devastating-adaptation-gap","status":"publish","type":"news","link":"https:\/\/www.lse.ac.uk\/granthaminstitute\/news\/small-island-developing-states-need-innovative-forms-of-finance-to-bridge-the-devastating-adaptation-gap\/","title":{"rendered":"Small Island Developing States need innovative forms of finance to bridge the devastating \u2018adaptation gap\u2019"},"content":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<?xml encoding=\"UTF-8\"><p class=\"is-style-large\">COP29 has been criticised for failing to deliver substantial and accessible adaptation finance to support developing countries as they deal with climate change impacts. This poses particular challenges for highly-vulnerable Small Island Developing States, who might turn to environmentally-damaging alternatives such as deep-sea mining to plug the gap, write Lea Reitmeier and Denyse S. Dookie.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The world is nearing a <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ipcc.ch\/report\/ar6\/syr\/downloads\/report\/IPCC_AR6_SYR_LongerReport.pdf\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">+1.5&deg;C rise in surface temperature&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a> much faster than predicted, with growing evidence of <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ipcc.ch\/report\/ar6\/syr\/figures\/figure-spm-3\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">irreversible impacts&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a>. For <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.un.org\/ohrlls\/content\/list-sids\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">Small Island Developing States&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a> (SIDS), <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/climatepromise.undp.org\/news-and-stories\/small-island-developing-states-are-frontlines-climate-change-heres-why\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">climate change is no longer a distant threat&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a>. Extreme weather events linked to climate change such as flooding and tropical cyclones are already severely affecting SIDS&rsquo; economies, challenging recovery and resilience-building; for example, <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.worldbank.org\/en\/news\/feature\/2017\/11\/28\/a-360-degree-look-at-dominica-post-hurricane-maria\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">Dominica lost over 200% of its GDP&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a> following Hurricane Maria in 2017. In addition, slow-onset phenomena such as <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nature.com\/articles\/s41893-023-01230-5\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">sea level rise&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a>, coastal erosion and saltwater intrusion are intensifying the threat. Despite being limited contributors to global emissions, climate change continues to disproportionately affect these nations, disrupting lives, livelihoods and economies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why is there such urgency to scale up adaptation finance for SIDS?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>SIDS have often been described as a <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.un.org\/ohrlls\/content\/about-small-island-developing-states\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">&lsquo;special case&rsquo; for sustainable development&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a>. As well as the impact of external shocks such as natural hazards and global economic crises, they are <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/sdg.iisd.org\/news\/high-level-expert-panel-develops-multidimensional-vulnerability-index\/\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">highly vulnerable&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a> to a complex set of factors including geographical isolation and high transport costs, limited natural resources, lack of updated infrastructure, skills gaps, labour shortages, and <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/ideas.repec.org\/p\/ags\/uqseet\/90627.html\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">diseconomies of scale&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a>, which limit economic diversification. SIDS often rely on external markets and trade, as well as sectors sensitive to climate disruptions, such as tourism, agriculture and fishing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Recurring and frequent climate and disaster impacts in SIDS require adequate financing to maintain economic stability and build resilience. However, the use of traditional measures of development to determine access to climate finance <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/enb.iisd.org\/articles\/fourth-international-conference-small-island-developing-states\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">trivialises the unique structural vulnerabilities of SIDS&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a>. Metrics such as Gross National Income (GNI) per capita, in particular, may show comparatively high values for SIDS nations due to their relatively small populations, without adjustment for island-specific climate adaptation costs. This is a factor in <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/datahelpdesk.worldbank.org\/knowledgebase\/articles\/906519-world-bank-country-and-lending-groups\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">half of all SIDS being classified&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a> by the World Bank as high-income economies, which <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.oecd-ilibrary.org\/economics\/helping-small-island-developing-states-graduate-to-success_8f2910aa-en\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">poses a significant barrier to affordable financing options&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.unep.org\/resources\/adaptation-gap-report-2024\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">Adaptation finance needs for SIDS are disproportionately high compared with other nations&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a>. On average, <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/assets.publishing.service.gov.uk\/media\/57a08af4e5274a27b2000879\/AGF-Implications-SIDS-CDKN-Special-Briefing-small.pdf\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">SIDS require 3.4% of GDP annually&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a>, far exceeding the <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.worldbank.org\/en\/news\/feature\/2023\/03\/13\/what-you-need-to-know-about-how-ccdrs-estimate-climate-finance-needs#:~:text=Financing%20needs%20for%20climate%20action,as%208.0%25%20in%20low%2Dincome\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">1.4% required to adapt to climate change&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a> by other developing countries. Modelled costs for adaptation in SIDS are <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.unep.org\/resources\/adaptation-gap-report-2024\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">estimated at US$5.1 billion per year&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a>. Yet, actual public <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.unep.org\/resources\/adaptation-gap-report-2024\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">adaptation finance flows to SIDS are only about US$1.4 billion per year&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a> &ndash; covering less than one-third of the needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Despite the urgency, the <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.unep.org\/resources\/adaptation-gap-report-2024\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">annual funding volume&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a> of new adaptation projects under the financial mechanisms of the Paris Agreement &ndash; the <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.adaptation-fund.org\/document\/annual-performance-report-for-the-fiscal-year-2024\/\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">Adaptation Fund&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a> (AF), <a class=\"link link--external\" href=\"https:\/\/www.greenclimate.fund\/document\/annual-report-2023\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" title=\"\">Green Climate Fund&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a> (GCF) and <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/unfccc.int\/documents\/640370\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">Global Environment Facility&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a> (GEF) &ndash; have remained the same for over five years at <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.unep.org\/resources\/adaptation-gap-report-2024\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">just under US$500 million per year&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a>. About 37% of adaptation finance to SIDS is supplied through loans, which adds to the debt burden.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is crucial that adaptation finance consists of grants, <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.worldbank.org\/en\/news\/feature\/2021\/09\/16\/what-you-need-to-know-about-concessional-finance-for-climate-action\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">concessional loans&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a> and other innovative finance instruments, especially given <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/news.un.org\/en\/story\/2024\/05\/1150296\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">the debt crisis in many SIDS&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a>. It is estimated that <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"http:\/\/iied.org\/22426iied\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">nearly half of SIDS are nearing or are already in debt distress&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a>, which encourages debt servicing rather than investment in social services and resilience building. <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fca.org.uk\/firms\/credit-rating-agencies\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">Credit rating agencies&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a> often view growing debt levels negatively, prioritising short-term liquidity over the long-term investments needed for climate resilience. Further, their methodologies typically focus on the potential economic damage from the exposure to climate-related risks and rarely <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.iied.org\/22546iied\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">consider the benefits of investing&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a> in climate resilience. This creates a vicious cycle for SIDS since asset managers and pension funds use these ratings and assessments to inform investment decisions. With poor credit ratings, SIDS and other vulnerable nations therefore become less attractive to investors, which limits their access to private finance or worsens the finance terms. Initial discussions to <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.reuters.com\/business\/environment\/climate-vulnerable-countries-push-credit-rating-overhaul-2024-12-06\/\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">overhaul the ratings have started&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a>. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">COP29 and the missed opportunity<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>At COP29, high-income countries had the opportunity to support the growing climate-related financial needs of vulnerable nations. But despite the urgent need, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lse.ac.uk\/granthaminstitute\/news\/joint-statement-by-amar-bhattacharya-vera-songwe-and-nicholas-stern-co-chairs-of-the-independent-high-level-expert-group-on-climate-finance\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">the summit failed to deliver<\/a> the necessary increase in financial flows. At the same time, the <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.unep.org\/resources\/adaptation-gap-report-2024\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">UN&rsquo;s Adaptation Gap Report 2024 highlights&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a> that adaptation financing must move beyond incremental measures and focus on strategic, anticipatory and transformational measures. These efforts <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.unep.org\/resources\/adaptation-gap-report-2023\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">remain underfinanced&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a>, and funding the easiest-to-finance projects will not deliver the scale or complexity of adaptation required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The challenges faced by SIDS are set to intensify. Currently, there are <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.oecd-ilibrary.org\/docserver\/8f2910aa-en.pdf?expires=1733313555&amp;id=id&amp;accname=ocid71015720&amp;checksum=53F29B48015AC0351414E57E8B0C25F1\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">12 SIDS that might exceed the income threshold&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a> by 2030 that qualifies them to receive <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.oecd.org\/en\/topics\/sub-issues\/oda-standards.html\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">official development assistance&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a> (ODA). Countries that exceed the threshold of US$13,845 GNI per capita for three consecutive years will be excluded from the &lsquo;upper middle-income country&rsquo; category. For example, in 2026 <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.oecd.org\/en\/topics\/sub-issues\/oda-eligibility-and-conditions\/dac-list-of-oda-recipients.html#:~:text=The%20DAC%20approved%20the%20graduation%20of%20Nauru%20from%20the%20DAC%20list%20of%20ODA%20Recipients%20but%20agreed%20to%20defer%20the%20date%20of%20effect%20of%20its%20graduation%20until%201%20January%202026.%20In%20January%202026%2C%20the%20DAC%20will%20update%20the%20DAC%20list%20of%20ODA%20recipients%20to%20reflect%20Nauru%E2%80%99s%20graduation.\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">Nauru will graduate from the Development Assistance Committee&rsquo;s list of ODA recipients&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a>, effectively severing its access to significant concessional funding sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The failure of COP29 to prompt wealthy economies to both increase their support and reduce the bureaucratic hurdles to access finance, compounded by the pressing need to secure the necessary financial resources to facilitate adaptation measures, may prompt some nations to explore alternative avenues for financial support that incur long-term risk &ndash; such as deep-sea mining.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The lure of deep-sea mining<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lse.ac.uk\/granthaminstitute\/explainers\/what-is-deep-sea-mining-and-how-is-it-connected-to-the-net-zero-transition\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Deep-sea mining<\/a> involves extracting minerals such as polymetallic nodules from the ocean floor, often beneath <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/iucn.org\/our-work\/topic\/high-seas\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">the high seas&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a>. <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.isa.org.jm\/exploration-contracts\/\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">Countries that have contracts&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a> from the <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.isa.org.jm\/about-isa\/\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">International Seabed Authority&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a> (ISA) can grant companies access to the resources, even if the nodules are <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.isa.org.jm\/maps\/clarion-clipperton-fracture-zone\/\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">not in close proximity to their land&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a>. In return, companies engaged in exploitation of minerals would be expected to pay a tax to the sponsoring state, plus taxes to the ISA. One <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sciencedirect.com\/science\/article\/pii\/S0308597X23000994?via%3Dihub#bib73\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">estimate&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a> places the former at 25% corporate income tax and the latter after year four at a US$1 million exploitation licence plus an annual fee of US$100,000 and a 6% royalty on the total value of metals recovered. For cash-strapped nations in particular, the additional direct income and prospective income through the ISA benefit-sharing mechanism could prove very attractive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Nauru, for example, is particularly exposed to sea-level rise, is geographically isolated and has limited economic opportunities. The estimated cost of climate change adaptation and mitigation projects in its <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/production-new-commonwealth-files.s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com\/s3fs-public\/2024-10\/d19820-v10-eysd-guidebook-intnl-finance-nauru-c-lawson_lr.pdf\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) is around US$76 million&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a>. Taxes and royalties from deep-sea mining could provide a significant and relatively stable form of <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.nauru.gov.nr\/government\/departments\/department-of-foreign-affairs-and-trade\/faqs-on-2-year-notice.aspx#:~:text=As%20a%20small,the%20international%20community.\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">financial flows for Nauru and small nations like it&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a>. In contrast to the often-cumbersome bureaucratic processes to access international climate funds, additional tax income is unconstrained in its use and does not add to debt burden. Government can use this revenue to invest in strategic, anticipatory, and transformational adaptation measures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, the environmental risks associated with deep-sea mining are considerable. Mining activities can disrupt marine ecosystems, affecting fish stocks, natural coastal protection systems and even tourism &ndash; further exacerbating the challenges faced by SIDS. Sufficient financial support via the international mechanisms, as discussed during COP29, would have provided a more sustainable pathway for SIDS while protecting ecosystems and the services they provide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is noteworthy that many of the developed countries advocating for a moratorium on deep-sea mining are the same nations that failed to provide support to SIDS during COP29. This duality highlights a significant deficit in climate justice and undermines the principle of &lsquo;<a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/voelkerrechtsblog.org\/reassessing-common-but-differentiated-responsibilities-and-respective-capabilities\/\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">common but differentiated responsibility and respective capabilities&rsquo;&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Closing the gap<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Providing adequate climate finance is not just a matter of limiting the devastating impacts of climate change: it is also essential to prevent further environmental harm that might arise from desperate measures taken by vulnerable nations given the lack of alternatives, and to safeguard livelihoods, ensuring long-term resilience for vulnerable populations. Closing the gap requires urgent action, including scaling up grant-based finance, reducing reliance on non-concessional loans, and ensuring equitable and inclusive financing arrangements aligned with global climate justice principles. This may also necessitate a move away from traditional measures of development and need, and towards the design and implementation of a <a class=\"link link--external\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.un.org\/ohrlls\/mvi\" aria-describedby=\"link-description-new-window\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"\">Multidimensional Vulnerability Index&#65279;<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 16 16\" role=\"img\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M14.42 1.04L3.2.7a.8.8 0 00-.8.76v.1a.8.8 0 00.76.7l9.39.3L.93 14.16c-.3.3-.3.8 0 1.1l.09.08c.3.23.73.2 1.01-.07L13.65 3.65l.29 9.4a.8.8 0 00.8.76.79.79 0 00.77-.8L15.17 1.8a.82.82 0 00-.75-.76z\" fill=\"#2e3152\"><\/path><\/svg><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>COP29 was a missed opportunity. Now, the wealthy countries most responsible for historic emissions must support climate-vulnerable communities, moving beyond rhetoric and fulfilling their financial commitments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>The authors are grateful to Timo Leiter and Georgina Kyriacou for reviewing this commentary.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<?xml encoding=\"UTF-8\"><p>The gap in adaptation finance to support developing countries poses particular challenges for highly-vulnerable Small Island Developing States, who might turn to environmentally-damaging alternatives such as deep-sea mining as a result, this commentary explains.<\/p>\n\n","protected":false},"author":23,"featured_media":76449,"template":"","tags":[4485,4601,2189,4477,4453],"news-category":[16],"topic_area":[],"class_list":["post-76448","news","type-news","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","tag-adaptation-finance-gap","tag-cop29","tag-debt","tag-deep-sea-mining","tag-sids","news-category-20-commentary"],"acf":{"show_translations_widget":{"ref_value":"field_6203d588c41e8","value":"0","type":false,"post_type":""},"downloads":{"ref_value":"field_52f16cc1a80f2","value":false,"type":"repeater","post_type":""},"rss_newsletter":{"ref_value":"field_54f5c2c1544d8","value":"","type":false,"post_type":""},"profile_link":{"ref_value":"field_52f164b5189e9","value":["lea-reitmeier","denyse-dookie"],"type":"relationship","post_type":"profile"},"article_link":{"ref_value":"field_52eee3c7f0586","value":"","type":false,"post_type":""},"article_link_title":{"ref_value":"field_5322399d89d42","value":"","type":false,"post_type":""},"spotlight":{"ref_value":"field_52f80896506d3","value":"","type":false,"post_type":""}},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.4 - 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