Pacific Islands and Rising Seas

How low-lying Pacific nations like Tuvalu and Kiribati face existential threats from sea-level rise, how they rely on fishing licences and aid, and new ideas like climate migration deals.

Low-lying Pacific island nations face existential climate threats.

At risk

Tuvalu, Kiribati and the Marshall Islands have land only a few metres above sea level.
Rising seas cause flooding, salt in groundwater and erosion.

Economy

Fishing licences: selling rights to foreign fleets to fish tuna in their large ocean zones is a major revenue source.
Aid and remittances.
Trust funds: Tuvalu and Kiribati invest in funds to support budgets.

Climate migration deal

In 2023, Australia and Tuvalu signed the Falepili Union, offering Tuvaluans a pathway to migrate to Australia, with around 280 places a year.

Digital nation

Tuvalu plans to preserve its culture and statehood digitally if its land is lost.

Climate diplomacy

Pacific islands push for strong climate action and loss and damage funding.

The king tide

During king tides, seawater floods homes and gardens in Tuvalu's capital, a preview of future sea-level rise.

Thinking climate change is only a future threat

Pacific islands already face flooding and salt intrusion.

Key takeaways

Tuvalu and Kiribati face existential sea-level threats.
Fishing licences and trust funds support their budgets.
Australia and Tuvalu signed a migration deal in 2023.
They lead climate diplomacy.