This week, Tuvalu has officially received three 3D Atoll Models for Funafuti, Nanumea, and Nanumaga. The models were handed over to Prime Minister of Tuvalu Feleti Teo, by Dr Stuart Minchin, Director-General of the Pacific Community (SPC).
These models represent decades of dedicated scientific and technological collaboration between SPC and the Government of Tuvalu.
Dr Minchin emphasised that while the Pacific region contributes less than one percent of global carbon emissions, we face some of the most severe consequences of climate change.
He stated, “These models reinforce the urgent need for accelerated access to climate finance, where the Pacific has so far received only 0.22 percent of promised funds, and for global actions to keep emissions below 1.5 degrees Celsius. These models are not just tools; they are vital for advocacy. They demonstrate the power of data-driven storytelling, harmonising data and science to fully understand the urgency and real-life impacts of climate change on communities in Tuvalu.”
Upon receiving the models, Prime Minister Teo expressed his gratitude to SPC for guiding Tuvalu through the development of these important tools. He noted, “Previously, we were speculating on the impacts of climate change. Now, with these modeling tools, we have evidence-based data to highlight and strengthen our advocacy regarding the actual impacts of climate change and climate-induced sea level rise.”
These models will be managed by the Climate Change Department and have already been utilized by Tuvalu at the Conference of the Parties (COP) meetings.
The models serve as a visual representation of the scientific data co-developed by Tuvalu and SPC. This data has facilitated the creation of early warning systems for storm surges and inundation, as well as supported accurate adaptation designs.
These efforts are crucial for maximizing the impact of Tuvalu-led initiatives, such as the Tuvalu Coastal Adaptation Project (TCAP), and for encouraging other Pacific Island countries to adopt similar data-driven approaches.
