The Pacific nation of Tuvalu plans to create a version of itself in the metaverse, as a response to the existential threat of rising sea levels. Tuvalu’s Minister of Justice, Communication and Foreign Affairs Simon Kofe made the announcement via a chilling digital address to leaders at COP27.

He said the plan, which represents the “worst case,” involves creating a digital twin of Tuvalu in the metaverse to replicate its beautiful islands and preserve its rich culture:

The tragedy of this outcome cannot be overstated. […] Tuvalu might be the first country in the world to exist solely in cyberspace, but if global warming continues unchecked, it won’t be the last.