It is the smallest state in the South Pacific and third smallest state by area in the world.
Today, the island is a barren wasteland with jagged limestone pinnacles that cover 80% of the island.
Photo credit
Naurus phosphate deposit is the result of thousands of years of bird droppings, also called guano.
This rich deposit lies near the surface, allowing easy strip mining operation.
While the mining business exploded, the land was systematically destroyed.
Mining also affected marine life surrounding the island as silt and phosphate runoff contaminated the waters.
The land and economy werent the only things ravaged.
Few people live past the age of 60 years.
With the easy income from phosphate, the people stopped farming and began importing canned and frozen food.
As a result, Nauru has the highest rates of obesity and diabetes in the world.
94% of its residents are overweight while 72% of them are obese.
Participants of a walk against Diabetes and for general fitness around Nauru airport.Photo credit
Sources:Wikipedia/ABC/Green Fudge
