The island nation of Tuvalu is set to become the world’s first digital nation. Due to rising sea levels, portions of the island are regularly uninhabitable, and, without significant interventions, the entire country is expected to be underwater by the end of the century.

During the United Nations climate change summit in November, 2023 Tuvalu’s Minister of Justice unveiled plans to transition the country to the metaverse in order to preserve its history, geography and culture. The Monkeys, an Australian creative agency, and Collider, a film production company, are currently cataloging, mapping and otherwise recording all aspects of Tuvaluan culture in order to create a digital double of the country.

Additionally, Australia has offered a path to permanent residency to Tuvalans who want to relocate as well as assistance with land reclamation in Tuvalu.