If a country stops existing physically, can it continue to exist digitally?

It's a question both tragic and hopeful — and one some island nations are grappling with, due to climate change.

Tuvalu, the tiny Pacific nation halfway between Australia and Hawaii, is one such nation. In 100 years, it's predicted that the whole island will be underwater.

Now, an entrepreneur, supported by the Tuvaluan government, has come up with a multipronged plan to conserve the island's cultural heritage, using blockchain technology.

He's even suggesting building a "digital twin" in the metaverse, a virtual world that will likely outlive Tuvalu's physical landmass.

These ideas might seem like something out of science fiction, but some say they're "not too far-fetched". Read our article to learn more.

Then, explore the fascinating history of humans' relationship to trees, which stretches back millions of years.

As the world experiences rampant deforestation, one professor says now is a crucial time to understand just how important wood has been to our evolution.

From providing warmth and shelter to forming musical instruments, shipping vessels and weapons, the essential material has long shaped how we live.

So, how can we use wood sustainably into the future? Read on to find out.

And finally, do you have a conundrum you just can't figure out, something you're always putting in the mental "too hard basket"?

If so, Life Matters wants to hear from you!

To celebrate the ABC's 90th birthday, the show is taking its popular Too Hard Basket segment to the stage, with a live show taking place in Melbourne on June 30.

Ahead of the event, the team is after new puzzles and predicaments to solve. Get in touch to share yours (details below) and don't forget to register for your free tickets to the event.

 

Until next time,
Anna Levy, deputy digital editor
 

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Some say the Pacific island nation Tuvalu could be underwater within a century. This entrepreneur believes it's time to consider how technology such as virtual worlds might help.

As the world experiences rampant deforestation and the effects of climate change, this expert says we must understand just how important trees — and wood — are to humans.

They're viewed by Church organisations as 'spiritual servants' but a growing number of faith workers regard themselves as God-smiths entitled to the same working rights as anyone else.