Tuvalu

Background info

Tuvalu is a tiny Pacific nation with a population of about 10,000 people. While the population may be small, the people of Tuvalu face significant threats, with the foremost being climate change. Tuvalu sits only two meters above sea level and some experts think the group of islands could eventually vanish if sea levels keep rising. It is one of the most vulnerable countries in the world when it comes to being affected by climate change. According to a Pacific Climate Change Science Program study, since 1993 the sea level around Tuvalu has risen by approximately 5 millimeters per year. By 2030, under a high emissions scenario, the rise is projected to be in the range of 7 to 18 centimeters. It is possible that significant areas of the country will be submerged and uninhabitable, and communities forced to relocate.

The Highest point in Tuvalu is five meters above sea level, with a small dam to face the wrath of the oceans. Over the past decade, the country has seen a loss of 3 meters from their beachfront. Seeing as it is the 4th smallest state in the world, some experts estimate that it will be necessary to look at photographs to see what Tuvalu will look like in 50 years

In Tuvalu, environmental conditions triggered 9% of recorded movements in 2005-2015 and the majority of households indicated that they feel that migration would be a necessary strategy if climate change impacts worsen their basic living conditions. Sea-level rise (76% of respondents), saltwater intrusion (74%), drought (72%) and floods (71%) are the most likely environmental factors thought to trigger future migration.

While 97% of surveyed households in Tuvalu reported they had been impacted by natural hazards between 2005 and 2015, only 53% of the people perceived they would be able to afford migration in the future.

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Micronesia (region)⁠

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