In the global shift towards environmental sustainability, many small island nations are leading the way in the development and implementation of green technology.

Tuvalu a small island nation in the South Pacific recently announced their goal of generating 100% of the islands energy needs using renewable energy by 2020. Kick starting that effort is a new solar power system, which supplies 5% of Funafuti’s, (the nation’s capital) electricity. To reach the nation’s 100% renewable energy goal will require an estimated $20 million.

It is inspiring that the tiny nation of 12,000 people has adopted such an ambitious goal. It is particularly inspiring considering that since the nation lies just above sea level the islands will be among the first effected by global warming. For the sake of the people of Tuvalu, we would be wise to follow their lead.