The 34th Annual Marshall Islands Mayors Association (MIMA) Conference, chaired by the President of the Republic of the Marshall Islands in May, offered a significant platform to showcase the many achievements of the Addressing Climate Vulnerability in the Water Sector (ACWA) Project. At the conference, the UN Development Programme (UNDP) and the Republic of Marshall Islands Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) presented updates on the project and pledged to enhance community leadership while continuing their support for ongoing initiatives in the neighbouring islands.
Several key implementation challenges were identified, particularly the importance of maintaining ongoing local engagement as activities progress nationwide. Logistical coordination emerged as another concern, with the project team collaborating closely with the Marshall Islands Shipping Corporation to secure space on vessels whenever possible, ensuring timely delivery of materials. All mayors expressed enthusiasm about connecting their water systems, especially since some communities are already experiencing improved access to safe water through the project.
Utrik Atoll is one of the latest locations where significant progress is being made in water management efforts. In early 2025, seven new Flatpack Modular Tanks (FMT) were installed as part of the ACWA Project, which aims to enhance water storage capacity and ensure access to safe drinking water in the face of increasing climate challenges, particularly extended droughts. This initiative is advancing water security and climate resilience in the Marshall Islands by providing essential infrastructure, promoting community ownership, and engaging youth.
The tanks are being connected to important community buildings (ECB) such as schools, clinics, and churches through upgraded rainwater harvesting systems (RWHS). The connection and upgrade work is being led by the ACWA Field Engineer and four ACWA Builders, with active participation from local volunteers and support from community leaders.
In the initial phase of the FMT installation, around 10 local volunteers assisted with crucial tasks, including assembling tanks and transporting sand and coral for the tank foundations. The local government enhanced the operation by supplying a truck, significantly increasing the efficiency of material transport. Additionally, women in the community contributed by preparing and serving meals for the volunteers, demonstrating a strong sense of local ownership and solidarity throughout the process.
Building on their progress, the team transitioned into the ECB connection and upgrade phase. During this stage, they undertook essential tasks such as adjusting fascia boards, installing gutters, and integrating leaf filters and first flush diverters to enhance rainwater quality and improve water safety. These collaborative efforts throughout both phases highlight the ACWA Project’s focus on community-driven implementation and capacity building, ensuring that the local population is central to long-term climate adaptation. "The involvement of local volunteers has been crucial, not just for providing labour support but also for ensuring sustainability in the long run," stated the ACWA Field Engineer.
"They will be responsible for maintaining the system after our departure. Notably, this process facilitated the transfer of skills, as some volunteers acquired practical technical abilities during the installation and training, potentially leading to future job opportunities," they noted.
In addition to infrastructure development, the mission to Utrik also emphasised youth education and awareness. The ACWA team held interactive learning sessions for seventh and eighth-grade students at Utrik Elementary School, where they were introduced to the technical aspects of the Rainwater Harvesting System (RWHS), including the first flush device, leaf eater, and guttering systems. This was complemented by a Water Safety Awareness session aimed at enhancing students' understanding of hygiene, water conservation, and climate change adaptation.
Dressed in vibrant orange school uniforms, the students accompanied the team from their classroom to the installation sites, witnessing the upgrade process firsthand. For many, this was their first encounter with practical climate adaptation, offering a direct glimpse into the systems aimed at safeguarding their island's future. Their responses were filled with both curiosity and enthusiasm. "I had no idea how rainwater systems functioned before. Now I want to help maintain them," one student remarked.
Once fully integrated, the seven tanks will each hold 15,000 gallons, offering a total of 105,000 gallons of extra rainwater storage for the Utrik community, which directly benefits 381 residents. This enhanced capacity will greatly improve the atoll’s water security, especially during prolonged dry spells. In line with all ACWA initiatives, this project embodies a comprehensive approach that merges technical solutions, local leadership, and community education to foster enduring climate resilience.
The ACWA Project is supported by funding from the Green Climate Fund, the Government of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and the European Union. It is being implemented by UNDP in close collaboration with the EPA, which serves as a responsible party. This project addresses the growing climate risks in the Marshall Islands, especially the prolonged and severe droughts that significantly strain freshwater resources.
