Country Profile: United States Pacific Island Wildlife Refuges

The United States Pacific Island Wildlife Refuges comprise several remote islands and atolls, mainly located in the central and southern Pacific Ocean. These territories are unincorporated and unorganized, managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service under the Department of the Interior, and serve as critical habitats for numerous endemic species. The islands, including Baker, Howland, Jarvis, Johnston, Kingman, Midway, and Palmyra, are largely uninhabited and focus on wildlife conservation. Their unique geographies and climates range from equatorial to subtropical, supporting diverse ecosystems.

Geography

The US Pacific Island Wildlife Refuges are situated in Oceania, spread across the vast Pacific Ocean. They feature a mix of islands and atolls, primarily low-lying coral formations surrounded by extensive marine environments. Each island exhibits distinct geographical attributes, such as sandy shores and fringing reefs, forming a critical habitat for various marine and terrestrial species.

Area: Total land area is approximately 6,959.41 sq km, consisting mainly of submerged land.
Terrain: Composed of low and nearly flat sandy coral islands.
Climate: Varied climatic conditions ranging from equatorial to subtropical.
Natural Hazards: The islands face maritime hazards due to their low elevation and surrounding waters.

People and Society

Access to these islands is tightly controlled, and entry is only granted via a Special Use Permit for activities aligned with refuge purposes. This seclusion has resulted in a lack of permanent human habitation and a focus on conservation efforts.

Economy

The economy of these territories is not extensively developed, primarily functioning under the auspices of environmental protection and wildlife conservation. There is no significant economic activity reported.

Government

The islands are unincorporated territories of the United States, managed under the laws of the US. With the exception of Palmyra Atoll, they are administered as part of the National Wildlife Refuge System, focusing on the preservation of wildlife and natural habitats.

Dependency Status: Most islands are administered by the Fish and Wildlife Service.
Legal System: US laws are applicable across the territories.
Diplomatic Representation: There is no separate diplomatic representation as these territories fall under US jurisdiction.
Flag: The US flag is used for all territories.

Military and Security

Defense and security for these Pacific Islands are the responsibility of the United States. They do not maintain individual military forces.

Energy

These territories primarily rely on the mainland for energy resources. Current estimates show minimal internal energy consumption and a minor dependency on imported coal.

Coal Imports: Approximately 108,000 metric tons projected for 2023.
Petroleum Consumption: Estimated at 2,000 barrels per day in 2023.

Transportation

Transportation options are limited. There are currently only two known airports within these territories, reflecting their remote location and focus on wildlife preservation.

Airports: 2 airports expected to be operational by 2025.

Environment

The islands are crucial for biodiversity, serving as breeding grounds for various species. However, environmental issues such as the absence of freshwater resources and pollution are notable challenges.

Environmental Issues: Most islands lack natural freshwater resources.
Climate Impact: Midway Islands face pollution mainly from plastic waste.

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Area	6,959.41 sq km	Total land area
Population	Not applicable	No permanent inhabitants
Coal Imports	108,000 metric tons	Projected for 2023
Refined Petroleum Consumption	2,000 bbl/day	Estimated for 2023
Airports	2	Expected by 2025
Carbon Dioxide Emissions	294,000 metric tonnes	Estimated for 2023