In the context of climate change, particularly regarding sea level rise, scientists are engaged
in studies on low-lying areas, especially coral islands, but the formulation of practical
recommendations is limited by the physical uncertainty inherent in climate forecasting. This
article intends to address this issue through a study on vulnerability to coastal hazards. It is
based on a three-month project in the Republic of Kiribati (South Pacific), and more
particularly on four case studies conducted in the atoll where the capital, Tarawa, is situated.
The objective is to define the awareness of the I-Kiribati people in terms of their exposure to
coastal hazards, and their understanding of climate change.