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The damages are divided into two parts: coastal erosion and sea water destruction and contamination of farmlands and well water. The fragile islands of Tuvalu are in danger of being fully covered by water if the erosion of coastal soil continues at its current rate. As a result of the ever rising sea levels in recent years, sea water has begun to regularly cover the low lying areas on some of the islands, destroying crops and contaminating ground wells.
Without the necessary water and crops needed to survive, the Tuvaluan people may be forced to leave their home as some of the world's first global warming refugees.
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Tuvalu is located on the equator, 2 hours flight from the republic of Fiji islands. Comprising of 9 islands with a total land area of just 26 km2, it is surrounded by some of the most picturesque emerald green waters found in the world. Nearly 10,000 Polynesians are living on these islands. The origin of the Tuvaluan people is believed to be of Samoan descent or from a smaller island tribe that voyaged across the Pacific Ocean in ancient times.
The rustle of the wind flapping coconut leaves and the gentle sound of waves lapping toward the white sand beaches. Following the scent of the fires fueled by coconut shells, one can hear the laughter of the Tuvaluan peopleas they talk inside their homes. Visitors are greeted with gentle smiles and open hearts as the Tuvaluan often extend invitations into their homes to join them in a meal. Some of the things Industrialized country people may have lost in the past still remain in Tuvalu.
