Q17.How are climate change and the sea level rise affecting the very existence of many island nations? Discuss with examples.

Climate change, marked by rising temperatures and extreme weather, combined with sea level rise from thermal expansion and ice melt, presents an existential threat to low-lying island nations, particularly Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

Impacts on Island Nations

• Coastal erosion, permanent land inundation, and saltwater intrusion contaminating freshwater and arable land.
• Losses in agriculture, fisheries, and tourism; damage to critical infrastructure; leading to forced displacement and migration.
• Loss of territory, sovereignty, cultural heritage, and national identity for entire populations.

Case Studies

Nations like Tuvalu, Kiribati, Maldives, and the Marshall Islands exemplify this crisis, facing severe land loss, developing relocation plans, and advocating for global climate justice.

Their plight highlights the urgent need for global climate action, adaptation, and international support to preserve their existence and unique heritage.