Archive · 20 Aug 2025
Kivalina, Alaska, Grapples with Climate Change and Relocation
Kivalina, a village in Alaska, is in danger because the Earth is getting warmer, causing the land to erode.
They've been trying to move the town for a long time, even before your parents were born, but it's really expensive.
The school is already in a safer place, and the plan is to move the whole town there.
People are talking about how to prepare for disasters and climate change, but it's hard to get the money they need.
The village was not originally planned by the Native people living there, which is also a big part of the problem.
It is more difficult to get government help as the government is cutting back on spending.
The Alaskan village of Kivalina, built on a sandbar, is threatened by climate change and coastal erosion.
Relocation has been discussed for over a century, with the school being the only successfully relocated structure.
A recent summit discussed climate change, emergency preparedness, and the murdered and missing Indigenous persons epidemic.
Funding for relocation is uncertain, despite estimates suggesting significant costs per person.
Indigenous community members express concerns about historical decisions and lack of consultation in the town's placement.
- Who
- The Iñupiat residents of Kivalina, government officials, and climate experts.
- What
- The Alaskan village of Kivalina is threatened by climate change and is considering relocation.
- When
- Discussions about relocation have been ongoing for over a century. A recent summit was held last month.
- Where
- Kivalina, Alaska, located on a sandy barrier island in the Arctic Circle.
- Why
- The village is threatened by coastal erosion, melting permafrost, and the impacts of climate change.
Indigenous Perspectives
Government and Scientific Views
Historical Decision-Making
Indigenous Perspectives
Original inhabitants' voices were not heard in placement and planning.
Government and Scientific Views
Government, missionary, and other organizations made permanent settlement a normal occurrence.
Focus on Issues
Indigenous Perspectives
The term climate change has been a challenge for people living in Kivalina.
Government and Scientific Views
Focus on climate change impacts, emergency preparedness, and Indigenous issues.
- Location
- Kivalina, Alaska
- Population
- Approx. 300 residents
- Main Threat
- Coastal erosion and climate change
- School Cost
- $43 million
- Road Cost
- $53.1 million
- Estimated Relocation Cost per Person
- $1 million