Rewilding could help vulnerable islands keep pace with rising seas

A new study published in Science Advances suggests that restoring natural ecosystems on tropical atolls may be key to their survival against rising sea levels. Researchers from Lancaster University analyzed 28 islands in the Pacific and Indian oceans, finding that healthy ecosystems act as dynamic, self-sustaining systems. The process relies on a symbiotic cycle: seabirds transport vital nutrients from the ocean to the land via guano, which supports native vegetation and coral health. These plants stabilize island sediments, while reef-dwelling species like parrotfish contribute to sand production, effectively allowing the islands to grow and adapt. The findings emphasize that rewilding efforts—such as protecting bird populations and native flora—can provide a natural defense mechanism for low-lying atolls. By fostering these ecological feedback loops, conservationists may help vulnerable landforms maintain their physical structure and resilience in the face of accelerating climate change.