Rise or Shrink: The Risk of Sea Level Rise

Rising sea levels are a visible sign of the devastating effects of climate change on our world.

Our coastlines are in grave danger as temperatures increase, arctic ice melts, and oceans rise.

Reasons for Rising Seas

Learn more about the causes of rising sea levels below.

Thermodynamic Expansion

The oceans absorb heat from the rising global temperature caused by greenhouse gas emissions, causing them to rise.

Thawing of Glaciers and Ice Sheets

Both Antarctica and Greenland’s polar ice sheets, as well as glaciers everywhere, are experiencing rapid mass loss.

Implications of Rising Seas

1-Erosion of the Coastline

Coastal erosion increases as sea levels rise, posing a hazard to human habitation, vital infrastructure, and priceless ecosystems.

2-Storm Surges and Flooding

Extreme weather events like floods are made worse by rising sea levels.

3-Saline Infiltration

In the event of sea level rise, freshwater supplies may become tainted and undrinkable.

Reducing the Impact of Rising Seas

Here are some ways that we can do to help with the problems discussed above.

Reduce the release of greenhouse gases

Human-caused climate change is the main factor in sea level increase. It is critical to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases by switching to renewable energy and other eco-friendly practices.

Adaptation and Coastal Defense

The effects of rising waves can be lessened through the construction of seawalls and the implementation of coastal management plans.

Final Thoughts

Global communities are already feeling the effects of sea level rise, so it’s not a hypothetical problem. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions, protecting coastal areas, and adapting to changes already underway will require international cooperation.