Papua New Guinea (PNG) is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire, which stretches for about 40,000 km around the Pacific Ocean. Here, the tectonic plate of the Pacific collides with several surrounding continental plates and seismic tremors occur frequently. Most of the world’s volcanic eruptions, which are also the most severe, occur in this zone. 

PNG has an estimated 70 volcanoes, with the Smithsonian Global Volcanism Program listing 39 Holocene volcanoes (volcanoes that have been active in the last 11 000 years). Out of the 70 active volcanoes in the country, around 14 to 20, including famous volcanoes like Manam in Madang Province, Ulawun in West New Britain Province, Tavurvur in Rabaul, East New Britain Province, Kadovar in East Sepik Province and Bagana in the Autonomous Region of Bougainville.

Volcanoes are destructive when they erupt, causing harm to people and their livelihoods. However, volcanoes play a powerful role in everyday life. Volcanic soils are rich in nutrients, making the surrounding land highly fertile for gardening and farming. Many communities depend on these lands for food and livelihoods. At the same time, eruptions can destroy homes, contaminate water sources, damage crops and force families to evacuate, sometimes for years. For people living close to active volcanoes, uncertainty is part of daily life. 

PNG relies on the Rabaul Volcano Observatory, which monitors volcanic activity and provides early warnings. However, population growth, limited resources and climate pressures make disaster preparedness more challenging. Living safely with volcanoes means combining science, traditional knowledge and strong community awareness to protect lives while coexisting. 

Challenges remain in the alert systems. Many remote communities may not receive warnings in time and the limited awareness or understanding of alert levels needs to be communicated to the locals efficiently. 

How can PNG ensure its volcanic alert systems are fast, clear and protect everyone living in danger zones?