Sea level rise

Definition

Sea level rise refers to the increase in the average level of the world's oceans due to various factors, primarily linked to climate change. This phenomenon is driven by two main processes: the thermal expansion of seawater as it warms and the melting of glaciers and polar ice caps. As global temperatures rise, the consequences of sea level rise manifest in coastal flooding, erosion, and loss of habitat, significantly impacting human populations and ecosystems.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. It is estimated that sea levels have risen by about 8 to 9 inches since the late 19th century due to climate change effects.
2. Some projections suggest that sea levels could rise between 1 to 4 feet by the end of the century, depending on future emissions scenarios.
3. Low-lying coastal areas are at the greatest risk from sea level rise, threatening cities like Miami, New Orleans, and Jakarta with increased flooding.
4. Sea level rise can lead to saltwater intrusion into freshwater sources, affecting drinking water supplies and agriculture in coastal regions.
5. The rate of sea level rise is accelerating, with recent data indicating that it is occurring faster than previously anticipated due to rapid glacial melt.

Review Questions

• How does sea level rise contribute to the impact of climate change on coastal communities?
  • Sea level rise directly affects coastal communities by increasing the risk of flooding and erosion, which can displace populations and damage infrastructure. As sea levels continue to rise, low-lying areas become more vulnerable during storm surges and high tides. The increased flooding also leads to significant economic costs related to property damage and loss of livelihood for those relying on coastal resources.
• Evaluate the primary causes of sea level rise and their implications for global ecosystems.
  • The primary causes of sea level rise include thermal expansion of seawater as it warms and glacial melt from ice sheets and glaciers. These processes are accelerated by climate change driven by human activities. The implications for global ecosystems are profound; rising sea levels threaten coastal habitats such as wetlands and mangroves, disrupt marine biodiversity, and impact species that rely on these ecosystems for survival. Additionally, shifts in salinity can affect freshwater ecosystems connected to coastlines.
• Assess the long-term socio-economic consequences of unchecked sea level rise on urban planning and development.
  • Unchecked sea level rise poses significant long-term socio-economic challenges for urban planning and development. Cities may face increasing costs related to flood defenses, infrastructure retrofitting, and disaster response as they adapt to rising waters. Moreover, real estate values in vulnerable coastal areas may decline sharply, leading to economic instability. Communities may also experience displacement due to inundation, creating challenges around housing and social services. Effective urban planning must integrate climate resilience strategies to mitigate these impacts.

Related terms

Greenhouse gases: Gases such as carbon dioxide and methane that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming and climate change.

Glacial melt: The process of glaciers and ice sheets melting due to rising temperatures, contributing to increased water in the oceans.

Coastal erosion: The process by which coastlines are eroded due to wave action, currents, or human activities, often exacerbated by rising sea levels.