COSMOS MAGAZINE
Tuvalu, one of the world’s lowest-lying countries, is being swallowed by the sea.
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Credit: Brandi Meuller/ Getty
By 2050, much of its land could be lost to high tides.
In response, Tuvalu is creating a digital twin — an online version of its islands, people, and government — to preserve national identity and function beyond land loss.
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Credit: ACCENTURE SONG.
Using 3D modelling, drone footage, and blockchain tech, Tuvalu is building virtual replicas of its islands and administrative systems — including cultural archives and public services.
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These models aren't just visual — they respond to real-world data like weather and sea levels, helping plan and adapt to environmental change.
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A digital twin of Earth can help us understand our planet’s past, present and future. Data-fed models of forests, oceans, river systems and more will be crucial to creating a responsive, whole-Earth digital twin. Credit: Earthwave.
For some countries, digital twins offer a glimpse into a possible climate future and help prepare for climate disruption — and keep culture alive in the cloud.
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But for Tuvalu, that future is already reality.
Funafuti Atoll is at the front line against global warming. 15 feet above sea level at the highest point, rising levels are putting the population of 10,000 at risk. Credit: Ashley Cooper/Corbis via Getty Images.
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As rising seas swallow land and salt water poisons crops, Tuvaluan leaders don’t need simulations —they only need to look outside.
Tuvalu Foreign Minister Simon Kofe.: Credit: TUVALU MINISTRY HANDOUT
“As our land disappears, we have no choice but to become the world’s first digital nation.”
Tuvalu Foreign Minister Simon Kofe
“Part of our advocacy and messaging is to try and get people to understand how climate change is really affecting countries like Tuvalu that are at the forefront.” - Tuvalu Foreign Minister Simon Kofe.
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Kofe hopes that contemplating a digital future serves as a wake-up-call to the rest of the world, allowing them to avoid entering the digital twin altogether.
A woman wades through floodwaters among a wrecked house in Funafuti Atoll, Tuvalu. Credit: Ashley Cooper / Corbis / Getty Images
“Scientists are predicting that our islands could be fully submerged within a matter of decades. This is a plan for that worst-case scenario.”
Tuvalu Foreign Minister Simon Kofe