28/06/2026
June, Venice - Tuvalu has been awarded the PLANET AQUA Award - Blue Communities Category at the 2026 Venice Climate Week in Italy, recognising the nation's leadership in climate resilience, water stewardship, and adaptation efforts.
The recognition comes as the Government of Tuvalu continues to place climate change as its number one national priority, acknowledging it as the most significant threat to the country's future, security, and wellbeing.
The award highlights Tuvalu's ongoing commitment to advocating for climate action while advancing practical solutions to strengthen resilience at home.
Accepting the award on behalf of the Government and people of Tuvalu, Ambassador Lily Tangisia Faavae highlighted the realities faced by small island nations while emphasizing Tuvalu's determination to shape its own future.
"For Tuvalu, and for many Small Island Developing States, the climate crisis is not an abstract graph. It is our daily reality. But I refuse to bring a story of despair. Tuvalu is not waiting to be saved. We are active architects of our own survival."
Ambassador Faavae said the award reflects the resilience of the Tuvaluan people and the country's commitment to advancing climate solutions despite the challenges posed by rising sea levels and climate change.
The recognition places Tuvalu among global leaders championing water resilience, climate justice, and sustainable development, while reinforcing the importance of ensuring that the voices of frontline communities are heard in international decision-making.
Read the full media release in this link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1oDav_IZD_CS9SQaBWX1VHcgGwDSAoP6y/view?usp=drive_link
Watch the official video from Venice Climate Week through the video link below: https://youtu.be/mL654BcPTdQ
Source: Secretariat Venice Climate Week