Final Answer:
Tuvalu and the Maldives, low-lying islands, are globally highlighted due to imminent flooding from rising sea levels, sparking widespread concern.. Thus the correct option is B) may be the first nations to be completely flooded by rising sea levels
Step-by-step explanation:
Tuvalu and the Maldives are both small island nations in the Pacific and Indian Oceans, respectively, with average elevations barely above sea level. The rise in sea levels due to global warming poses a significant existential threat to these countries. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) estimates a sea-level rise of 0.26 to 0.77 meters by 2100. Given their minimal elevations, Tuvalu and the Maldives are particularly susceptible to even small increases in sea level.
The geographical vulnerability of Tuvalu and the Maldives has led to international discussions on climate change and the need for urgent global action. The islands have been actively participating in climate change conferences and advocating for stronger measures to curb greenhouse gas emissions. The potential submersion of these nations serves as a poignant reminder of the real and immediate consequences of climate change. Efforts to mitigate the impacts on Tuvalu and the Maldives underscore the broader challenge of addressing climate change and protecting the most vulnerable nations from its adverse effects.
In conclusion, the international spotlight on Tuvalu and the Maldives stems from the looming threat of complete inundation due to rising sea levels. This underscores the urgency for coordinated global efforts to combat climate change and protect vulnerable island nations from the potentially catastrophic consequences of environmental degradation.