Signs of “The End Times”: Perspectives on Climate Change Among Market Sellers in Madang, Papua New Guinea

Abstract

This paper describes understandings of climate change among market sellers in Madang Province, Papua New Guinea (PNG). Market sellers in PNG are likely to experience negative impacts associated with climate change due to their dependence on ecosystem services for their livelihood. Based on qualitative interviews at the Madang Town Market, this paper highlights an acute awareness of environmental change among market sellers such as, rising temperatures, changes in rainfall patterns and unpredictable seasons. Yet the interviews reveal unique interpretations of the cause of these changes. In contrast to anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions emphasized in international climate change discourse, interviewees refer to biblical notions of “the End Times”. This appears to give rise to a fatalistic view of climate change, as “God alone” is seen to be in control. Despite this apparent resignation, there is eagerness among market sellers for more information on climate change. These findings stress the need for sustainability practitioners working in PNG to consider the integration of environmental information with Christian beliefs. It is argued that this can be done in ways that respect spiritual understandings, while also promoting practical mitigation and adaptation strategies.