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Abstract

There is a need to identify effective and suitable solutions to water resource issues in small developing island countries (SDIC). The perception that island capabilities are substandard, result in temporary and maladaptive solutions adopted from wealthier nations. Better solutions can be achieved by identifying unique SDIC hydrological characteristics. These solutions need to be instantaneous, to address the reactive approach of islanders to environmental disasters, while having the ability to adapt to future hydrological changes, especially under climate change scenarios. However, a preliminary assessment in the Oceania Region indicated some alarming issues; (1) research activities are inactive, indicating less research interest generated from the region, despite concerns over the impacts of climate change. (2) Organization goals are often project-oriented, resulting in lack of scientific perspectives. (3) Citizens are unable to conduct quality research, and (4) lack of water specialists, as well as poor collaborative research efforts. (5) Majority of projects are temporary solutions because they fail to address cultural aspects; therefore, transdisciplinary approaches are more important than initially thought considering the cultural complexity of islanders. Here we present the LINKAGE framework for conducting hydrological research in SDIC; one that encapsulates “spatial connection and socio-cultural inclusion”. It uses coral reefs as “canaries” for water resources management, addresses similar “Ridge to Reef” problems, and composed of four units; Natural System, Governance, Community Capability, and Knowledges bridging units. It has been practiced in the southern Ryukyu islands, Japan and intended for suitable SDIC in the Pacific region.