Final answer:
Nauru is a tiny island whose central area has been heavily impacted by phosphate mining, leaving the landscape devastated and its economy vulnerable.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nauru is a very small island with a central area that is drastically altered due to extensive phosphate mining. This independent island country of Nauru has a mere eight square miles of physical area. The large phosphate deposits on the island once created significant wealth for its residents. However, after the depletion of these deposits, the island faced a stark change in its economic landscape. The central area has been left with little means to generate wealth, leading to a devastated landscape. Residents have had to find alternative means of livelihood, including living off investments from mining or relocating elsewhere to sustain themselves. By comparing Nauru to other Pacific Island nations like Tuvalu and Palau, it is evident that small island nations often face unique environmental and economic challenges.