The British Virgin Islands (BVI)
Location
Adjacent to the US Virgin Islands (USVI) and 96 km east of
Puerto Rico
Size
The BVI comprise more than 60 islands, islets and cays (some
little more than rocks). A total land area of only 153 sq km
scattered over some 3,458 sq km of sea.
Climate
A tropical climate moderated by trade winds.
Topography
Most of the islands are hilly with steep slopes, having been
formed from formerly submerged volcanoes. Many of the islands have
lush vegetation, sandy beaches, and coral reefs.
Biodiversity
The islands support a number of endemic and threatened species
of international importance, such as the critically endangered
endemic Anegada rock iguana (Cyclura pinguis). The BVI also possess
a number of globally significant plant species, some of which occur
only on Anegada, such as Pokemeboy (Acacia anegadensis) and
Wirewist (Metastelma anegadense).
Main economic activities
The major industries are tourism and international financial
services.
Other information
Population - 27,000 (2005 estimate).
Information links
JNCC has prepared a series of outreach materials which
give a general background to climate change and includes territory
specific information on climate
change impacts.