Waterford native at the forefront of annual UN climate change conference

Waterford native at the forefront of annual UN climate change conference

Peeking just above the surface of the Pacific Ocean is the island nation of Tuvalu, all 10 square miles of it. With a population of 11,000 who live an average of 6 feet above sea level, it is not only one of the smallest nations in the world but among the most vulnerable because of rising sea levels. By the end of this century, it is expected that most of its nine islands will be underwater.

The more commonly known South Pacific nation of Fiji is famous for its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and vacation resorts. But In 2015 and 2016, two Category 5 cyclones ravaged the country and its population of 900,000, leaving tens of thousands displaced and without fresh water. On average, the island is struck by three natural disasters per year and like Tuvalu, faces the impacts of global warming.

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Source: The Day

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