Climate Change: France's Overseas Territories Develop Adaptation Strategies

Paris – 28.06.2026: France’s overseas territories are facing major challenges due to climate change. Polynesia in particular is coming into sharper focus because of alarming research findings from the climate research project Clippssa. After four years of investigation, the scientists have published warnings that clearly underline the urgent need for adaptation strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change.

For the overseas territories, Météo-France has provided detailed climate forecasts. These show that average temperatures will rise markedly by the year 2100 – in French Guiana, for example, an increase of about 3.5 degrees Celsius is expected. This warming poses risks such as more frequent heat waves, changed precipitation patterns, and rising sea levels, which can affect the living conditions and economic foundations of the regions.

The recent heat wave registered in France with peak temperatures of up to 44.3 degrees Celsius highlights the global dimensions of the problem. Although these extreme temperatures mainly affected mainland France, the overseas territories are threatened by similar developments. The forecasted climate changes thus require the rapid implementation of effective countermeasures.

In Polynesia, the present projections are based on extensive climate data and model calculations indicating that without targeted adaptations, environmental and living conditions will significantly deteriorate. The research experts therefore call for coordinated strategies to reduce risks and adapt to the new climatic conditions.

In response, France’s overseas territories have already initiated steps to adapt to the challenges. These include expanding and adjusting infrastructure, protecting and sustainably using natural resources, as well as educational programs to raise awareness among the population about climate-related changes. Furthermore, increased investment in scientific research is being made to establish solid foundations for future measures.

The French government actively supports these initiatives through financial resources and technical expertise. The goal is to provide the regions with the necessary means to become more resilient to the impacts of climate change and to protect their environment and society in the long term.

The situation underscores the importance of close cooperation between the overseas territories, the central government, and international partners. Only through joint efforts can effective adaptation strategies tailored to the specific regions be developed and implemented. This is crucial to counter the consequences of climate change and ensure sustainable development of the overseas territories.

In summary, the French overseas territories face urgent challenges due to climate change. Scientific forecasts and recent extreme weather events point to the necessity of swiftly and resolutely implementing adaptation measures. However, with targeted strategies and broad cooperation, they can strengthen their resilience and shape their future sustainably.