Sea level rise

Definition

Sea level rise refers to the increase in the average level of the ocean's surface, primarily caused by climate change, which leads to the melting of glaciers and polar ice sheets and the thermal expansion of seawater as it warms. This phenomenon has significant implications for coastal communities and ecosystems, particularly in terms of extreme weather events and the disruption of traditional livelihoods.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sea level rise is projected to increase by 1 to 4 feet by the end of the century, depending on future greenhouse gas emissions and climate policies.
2. Rising sea levels can lead to increased flooding during extreme weather events such as hurricanes and typhoons, significantly impacting coastal populations.
3. Indigenous communities that rely on fishing and agriculture are particularly vulnerable to sea level rise, as saltwater intrusion can degrade freshwater resources and disrupt ecosystems.
4. Small island nations face existential threats from sea level rise, as many may become uninhabitable due to loss of land and freshwater supplies.
5. Adaptation strategies, such as building sea walls and restoring wetlands, are being considered to protect vulnerable communities from the impacts of sea level rise.

Review Questions

• How does sea level rise impact traditional livelihoods in coastal communities?
  • Sea level rise impacts traditional livelihoods in coastal communities by threatening essential resources such as freshwater and arable land. As saltwater intrudes into freshwater sources, it compromises drinking water quality and agricultural productivity. Additionally, fishing communities may struggle as rising seas alter fish habitats and migration patterns, making it harder to maintain their traditional practices.
• Discuss the relationship between extreme weather events and sea level rise in the context of coastal resilience.
  • Extreme weather events are increasingly intensified by sea level rise, creating a cyclical threat to coastal resilience. Higher sea levels amplify storm surges during hurricanes and typhoons, leading to more severe flooding and erosion. This relationship underscores the need for enhanced coastal management strategies that integrate climate adaptation measures to build resilience against these compounded threats.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of sea level rise for indigenous populations reliant on natural resources in coastal areas.
  • The long-term implications of sea level rise for indigenous populations reliant on natural resources include potential loss of territory, disruption of traditional practices, and increased vulnerability to food insecurity. As rising seas inundate land and degrade ecosystems, these communities face challenges in maintaining their cultural identities tied to their environment. Addressing these issues requires collaborative efforts that honor indigenous knowledge while promoting sustainable adaptation strategies that protect their livelihoods.

Related terms

climate change:

A long-term change in temperature and typical weather patterns in a place, primarily driven by human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation.

coastal erosion: The process by which coastlines are eroded due to natural forces like waves, currents, and human activities, often exacerbated by rising sea levels.

flooding: An overflow of water onto land that is normally dry, which can be intensified by sea level rise, leading to damage to infrastructure and displacement of communities.