A University of Auckland study says the islands of Tuvalu, Tokelau and Kiribati can adapt to climate change rather than simply sinking below the waves, which is contrary to what we've been led to believe. 

Last month, TIME's magazine cover featured United Nations chief António Guterres standing in water off Tuvalu.

The cover photo was to illustrate one point — that island nations are sinking in the face of global warming-induced sea-level rise.

However, Auckland University's Dr Murray Ford says the islands are more resilient than originally thought.

He joined Kerre McIvor Mornings to discuss the issue.

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