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By Marissa Dilmeang Spires
KOROR, Palau — Palau’s pristine environment is threatened by rising sea levels and invasive species, according to a report from the Palau Conservation Society.
The report, titled “Strategic Plan 2022-2027,” details how climate change is causing sea level rise, exposing coral reefs and killing important marine life. In addition, saltwater flooding is destroying taro fields, a staple crop for Palauans.
“These changes could threaten the health of Palau’s natural environment,” the report states.
The report also highlights the dangers posed by the invasive crab-eating macaques in Angar state. The monkeys were introduced by German miners and have become a nuisance, damaging crops and posing a health threat to residents.
“Macaques are potential carriers and transmitters of several serious human diseases, including B virus, which is fatal to humans in approximately 80% of cases,” the report warned.
The Palau Conservation Society called for strict enforcement of a 1972 law that bans the transport of monkeys to other Palau islands. The group also advocated sterilizing captive monkeys and trapping escaped animals.
Palau President Soulanger Whipps has previously expressed his commitment to environmental protection. The island nation has taken a leading role in combating climate change and has pledged to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
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