The sea is swallowing an African island

illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on The Economist or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: Nyangai, a small island off Sierra Leone, is rapidly disappearing due to rising sea levels
• Once around 700 meters long, the island has shrunk to just 90 meters in the past decade 
• Despite frequent flooding and loss of land, many residents refuse to leave, believing they have no better options elsewhere

🔭 The context: Coastal erosion and rising sea levels, driven by climate change, are threatening low-lying communities worldwide
• In West Africa, weak infrastructure and limited adaptation resources make displacement a growing crisis
• Sierra Leone’s government lacks the funds to relocate or support affected islanders effectively

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Nyangai’s plight is a stark example of how climate change is displacing vulnerable communities
• With global sea levels continuing to rise, many small islands and coastal regions face similar fates
• Without urgent intervention, millions may be forced to migrate due to environmental changes

⏭️ What's next: If no action is taken, Nyangai may disappear entirely within years
• Relocation remains a contentious issue, as residents resist leaving despite worsening conditions
• Experts urge international aid and stronger climate adaptation policies to prevent further loss

💬 One quote: “We cannot leave this land. I do not think there is a better life for us anywhere else.” – Melvin Kargbo, Nyangai resident

📈 One stat: Nyangai has lost nearly 87% of its land area in just a decade due to rising sea levels

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