Sea-level rise

Definition

Sea-level rise refers to the increase in the average level of the world's oceans due to the effects of climate change, including thermal expansion of seawater and melting ice sheets and glaciers. This phenomenon poses significant risks to coastal communities, as it can lead to the loss of land, increased flooding, and disruption of local economies that depend on stable coastlines. The implications of sea-level rise are profound, affecting environmental justice, as marginalized populations often bear the brunt of these changes, and necessitating cooperative management strategies across political borders to mitigate its impacts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Global average sea levels have risen approximately 8-9 inches since the late 19th century, with projections suggesting a potential increase of 1-4 feet by 2100.
2. Low-lying coastal areas are particularly vulnerable to sea-level rise, leading to increased risks of flooding, displacement of communities, and loss of habitat.
3. Economic impacts are significant, as rising sea levels can damage infrastructure, reduce property values, and threaten industries like tourism and fishing.
4. Marginalized communities often lack the resources for effective adaptation, making environmental justice a critical issue in addressing the effects of sea-level rise.
5. Transboundary coastal management is essential for addressing sea-level rise, as neighboring regions must collaborate on strategies to manage shared resources and protect vulnerable areas.

Review Questions

• How does sea-level rise impact coastal economies and livelihoods?
  • Sea-level rise negatively affects coastal economies by threatening infrastructure critical for industries such as tourism and fishing. Increased flooding can damage property and disrupt businesses, leading to job losses and decreased economic stability. Additionally, communities may face rising costs for adaptation measures and recovery efforts after extreme weather events exacerbated by higher sea levels.
• Discuss the role of environmental justice in addressing the challenges posed by sea-level rise in coastal communities.
  • Environmental justice plays a crucial role in ensuring that all communities have equitable access to resources and support when facing challenges from sea-level rise. Marginalized populations often lack the financial means to implement necessary adaptation strategies or relocate from high-risk areas. Addressing these disparities is essential for creating inclusive policies that protect vulnerable communities from the adverse effects of rising seas.
• Evaluate how transboundary coastal management approaches can mitigate the impacts of sea-level rise on multiple jurisdictions.
  • Transboundary coastal management is vital for addressing the shared challenges posed by sea-level rise across different jurisdictions. By fostering collaboration among neighboring regions, stakeholders can develop cohesive strategies for resource management and disaster preparedness. Such approaches help streamline efforts in monitoring environmental changes, implementing adaptive infrastructure solutions, and ensuring that all affected parties are involved in decision-making processes related to climate resilience.

Related terms

Coastal Erosion:

The process by which coastal land is worn away by wave action, currents, and tidal forces, often exacerbated by rising sea levels.

Adaptation Strategies:

Approaches and measures taken by communities to adjust to the impacts of climate change, including infrastructure modifications and land-use planning.

Storm Surge: An abnormal rise in sea level during a storm, caused by high winds and low atmospheric pressure, which can lead to severe flooding in coastal areas.