Model answer & approach
- How are climate change and the sea level rise affecting the very existence of many island nations? Discuss with examples. (Answer in 150 words)
Introduction
Climate change, driven by global warming and rising greenhouse gas emissions, has intensified sea level rise, posing existential threats to low-lying island nations across the world.
Body
1. Submergence and Loss of Territory: Melting glaciers and thermal expansion of oceans are causing rising sea levels, threatening islands like Maldives, Kiribati, and Tuvalu with complete submersion.
2. Coastal Erosion and Habitat Loss: Frequent storm surges and coastal erosion are destroying homes, coral reefs, and arable land, undermining local livelihoods and ecosystems.
3. Freshwater Scarcity: Saltwater intrusion into groundwater sources is leading to acute water crises, particularly in atolls such as the Marshall Islands.
4. Climate Migration: Displacement due to uninhabitable conditions is creating “climate refugees”, challenging regional security and sovereignty.
Conclusion
Sea level rise endangers the very existence, culture, and sovereignty of many island nations, necessitating urgent global climate action and adaptive resilience strategies.
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