The Maldives is the lowest lying country in the world, standing only an average of 1.5m above sea level. Even a small rise in sea levels could inundate large parts of the archipelago, turning an entire nation into environmental refugees.
As it is predicted that seas are likely to rise by up to 59cm by 2100, President Mohamed Nasheed has announced that the country will begin to divert some of the country's tourist revenue into buying a new homeland.
Key facts
Surface area (square kms): 298 sq km
Population: 396,334
Population density in 2007 (per square km): 1025.4
GDP: 1.738 billion
CO2 emission estimates (metric tons per capita): 2.4
Energy production
- Electricity (kW-hr; 2004) 160,000,000 (160,000,000)
- Petroleum products (metric tons; 2004) none (236,000)
Energy production (consumption)
- Electricity (kW-hr; 2004) 160,000,000 (160,000,000)
- Petroleum products (metric tons; 2004) none (236,000)
A view from the ground in Maldives
In March this year, Maldives became the first nation to pledge carbon neutrality, with Maldivian President, Mohamed Nasheed announcing an ambitious plan for his country to be carbon neutral by 2020.
Maldivian government hold underwater cabinet meeting
The Maldivian president and cabinet ministers held the world's first underwater cabinet meeting earlier this month, to raise awareness of the plight of the Maldives.
Maldives host Climate Vulnerable Forum
Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed opened a two-day 'Climate Vulnerable Forum' conference today calling on fellow vulnerable, developing countries to embrace a carbon neutral future.
Climate Vulnerable Forum issues declaration
Ministers from 'V11' - those countries most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change – pledge to 'show the way by committing to climate neutrality'
Pledge your support for an ambitious global deal here! We need your backing to help us negotiate the unprecedented levels of agreement required at Copenhagen.