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

Model Answer:

Sea Level Rise: Existential Threat to Island Nations

Climate change-induced sea level rise, accelerating at 3.3mm annually, poses an existential threat to Small Island Developing States (SIDS), with many nations averaging just 1-2 meters above sea level, threatening their very survival as sovereign entities.

Physical and Environmental Impacts:
• Territorial submersion is eliminating landmass, with Tuvalu losing 3% area annually and Maldives facing complete submersion by 2100.
• Saltwater intrusion has contaminated freshwater aquifers in Marshall Islands, making traditional agriculture impossible and forcing dietary changes.
• Coastal erosion has already claimed two Kiribati islands, while coral bleaching destroys natural storm barriers protecting inhabited areas.

Socio-economic and Political Consequences:
• Climate migration is creating stateless populations, with Tuvalu negotiating resettlement treaties with Australia and Kiribati purchasing land in Fiji for future relocation.
• Economic devastation through tourism loss (Seychelles’ 30% GDP loss) and fishing zone changes threatens national revenues fundamentally.
• Sovereignty questions arise regarding UN membership and EEZ rights when physical territory disappears under international law.

Notable responses include Maldives’ floating city project, Vanuatu’s ICJ climate case, Tuvalu’s digital nation initiative, and underwater cabinet meetings. These nations contribute less than 1% of global emissions yet face maximum consequences, highlighting climate injustice.

Conclusion: Island nations need immediate global emission cuts, adaptation finance, and legal frameworks for climate-displaced populations.