蜜芽传媒

The Pacific nation of Palau is made up of more than 300 volcanic and coral islands. The environment is an important part of Palau's culture and economy with people relying on agriculture, and the ocean for their food.

However, the country's president, Surangel S. Whipps, is very concerned about the impact climate change is already having on the islands. The country has recently suffered from extreme weather events, such as harsh storms, which have effected the country's land, and oceanic ecosystems. Low-lying islands are also at risk of disappearing.

In 2015, Palau designated almost its entire ocean territory as a marine protected zone, and has set up environmental programmes dedicated to protecting it's rich biodiversity. Environmental projects are currently in place to improve marine life, and safeguard the country's barrier reefs.

President Surangel S. Whipps spoke to Newsday's Parisa Qurban, saying: "Our people have survived for thousands of years, off the land and off the sea, from generation to generation. And you know, they're unique, they have chiefs, they have their own culture, they actually have their own language. And so if those people have to relocate to the main island, I am sure they are going to loose their language, and their specific culture, and that's never going to be replaced, and that's a treasure that we should all fight to protect."

(Photo: Arial view of Palau. Credit: Government of Palau)

Producer Credit: Parisa Qurban.

Show less