The Maldives

We have known that the Maldives will be the first nation to experience the effects of increasing sea levels ever since the initial climate reports were released. With more than 80% of its islands lying less than one meter above sea level, it is the lowest-lying nation in the world.

The Maldives are already in danger of completely disappearing within the next several decades as sea levels are now increasing at a rate of almost four millimeters each year. Even if we drastically cut carbon emissions, they are predicted to climb by half a meter by 2100, according to one research by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Changes. They could rise by up to one meter if we don't, effectively drowning the entire nation.

• Country: Maldives