Tuvalu - Islands on the frontline of climate change

Panos Pictures, panos Prictures

This narrated slideshow describes the impact of sea level rise on Tuvalu, one of the low-lying island nations in the South Pacific. As the frequency and intensity of floods and cyclones increases, the island is shrinking and saltwater intrusion is affecting local food production on the plantations. As a result, many residents are moving off the island to New Zealand, where they face major cultural changes.

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Notes from our reviewers

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The short slideshow will enhance discussions of the impacts of sea level rise. Given the approach - the human side of sea level rise - slideshow could be used as a conversation-starter with students. This resource can be used in a variety of types of lessons in geography, climate change, environmental science and anthropology. See urls below of other resources on this topic.
Scientists present data and projections that suggest that, by the end of the century, the oceans could be one meter or more above their current levels. Coastal regions will be flooded and low-lying nations such as the tiny South Pacific country of Tuvalu could be submerged. Resource provides a clear example of the impact that climate change is having on both the physical and social-cultural aspects of life on a low-lying island. Comments from expert scientist: This product appears to be more of a documentary focusing on the social impacts of climate change and sea level rise in small island states. It focuses on social science product and most of the observations are qualitative in nature. Makes connection between rising sea levels and other factors that influence inundation (e.g. seasonal variability, high tides, wind swell, and tropical cyclones)