Name: Carlos Kusto
Age: 26
Country: Federated States of Micronesia
Native Language: Pohnapeian
I come from a small village in the Island of Pohnpei called U (shortest name of a place in the world). This is one of the prettiest places in Pohnpei, but most likely to be affected by climate change as most of the community lives on the shorelines.
In my view, the most important issues regarding climate change in my country are salt water intrusion, coastal erosion, sea level rise and unexpected weather.
The thing that I would most like to tell leaders at COP15 is to seal the deal, survival is not negotiable.
Taking strong action on climate change matters to me because we don’t want to lose our land, our culture, our food, our heritage and our beautiful islands.
Here at COP15, I have a particular interest in learning from other pacific islanders on the issues they are facing and helping each other in getting the message all over.
During my time at COP15 I hope to get as much support from other island nations on the issue of climate change as I can.
Beyond COP15, I would like to see immediate action done in those countries in the Pacific that need action. I want to see more money for projects for mitigation and adaptation.
My vision for the future is a healthy group of islands with healthy people living there and a healthy environment.
