Country Profile: United States Pacific Island Wildlife Refuges

The United States Pacific Island Wildlife Refuges consist of several uninhabited islands and atolls located in the central and southern Pacific Ocean. These territories, managed primarily for the conservation of marine and terrestrial wildlife, are remote and ecologically significant, supporting many endemic species. With no indigenous population, governance falls under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, while defense is maintained by the U.S. military. The economy is minimal, focused mostly on conservation efforts and limited resource extraction.

Geography

The US Pacific Island Wildlife Refuges encompass several small islands and atolls, including Baker, Howland, Jarvis, Johnston, Kingman, Midway, and Palmyra. These locations are scattered across the Pacific Ocean, with varying climates ranging from equatorial to subtropical. The islands are primarily low-lying coral formations with no freshwater resources and a unique environment supporting diverse wildlife.

Total area: 6,959.41 sq km, with submerged land accounting for the majority.
Elevation: The highest point reaches no more than 10 meters.
Climate: Baker, Howland, and Jarvis Islands feature equatorial conditions, while Midway Islands experience subtropical weather patterns.

People and Society

These territories have no permanent resident population, with access strictly regulated through special permits for conservation purposes. The islands are primarily utilized for wildlife observation and preservation rather than habitation.

Population: Technically nonexistent with strict access protocols.
Usage: Primarily for wildlife habitat and conservation efforts.

Economy

The economy of the Pacific Island Wildlife Refuges is largely non-existent, as these territories are dedicated to wildlife conservation rather than economic activities. There is minimal resource extraction, primarily associated with historical guano mining and restricted fishing activities.

Government

The islands and atolls are unincorporated and unorganized territories of the United States, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. They operate as part of the National Wildlife Refuge System, with the laws of the U.S. applying to the regions.

Governance: No local government; administered by the U.S. federal government.
Legal System: U.S. laws are enforced.

Military and Security

Defense of the wildlife refuges is the responsibility of the United States, with no military presence specifically stationed on the islands. The security concerns are minimal due to their remote location and lack of permanent residents.

Energy

Energy consumption in these territories is limited given their uninhabited and conservation-focused status. The estimated energy utilization primarily involves the transport and management of resources.

Refined petroleum consumption: 2,000 barrels per day (2023 est.).
Coal imports: 108,000 metric tons (2023 est.).
Carbon dioxide emissions: 294,000 metric tonnes of CO2 (2023 est.).

Transportation

Transportation infrastructure is minimal, reflecting the islands' isolation. There are limited airports providing access primarily for conservation personnel and researchers.

Airports: 2 airports expected by 2025.

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Total Area	6,959.41 sq km	Combined land and submerged area
Highest Elevation	10 m	Johnston Atoll
Refined Petroleum Usage	2,000 bbl/day	Daily consumption in 2023
Coal Imports	108,000 metric tons	Estimated for 2023
Carbon Dioxide Emissions	294,000 metric tonnes	Total emissions in 2023
Coastline Length	Varies per island	From 3 km (Kingman Reef) to 34 km (Johnston Atoll)
Population	0	No permanent residents
Energy Consumption	Limited	Focused on management of wildlife refuges
Access	Controlled	Permits required for entry