Sea level rise

Definition

Sea level rise refers to the increase in the average level of the world's oceans due to a combination of factors such as the melting of ice sheets and glaciers, as well as the thermal expansion of seawater as it warms. This phenomenon is a direct consequence of global warming, driven by human activities that increase greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere. As sea levels rise, coastal communities face increased risks of flooding, erosion, and habitat loss, highlighting the urgent need for climate action.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Since 1900, global sea levels have risen by approximately 8-9 inches (20-23 centimeters), with the rate of rise accelerating in recent decades.
2. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) projects that sea levels could rise between 1 to 4 feet (0.3 to 1.2 meters) by 2100 if greenhouse gas emissions continue at current rates.
3. Low-lying coastal areas, such as Miami and New Orleans, are particularly vulnerable to sea level rise, facing increased flooding and storm surge risks.
4. Rising sea levels not only threaten coastal communities but also disrupt marine ecosystems and the livelihoods that depend on them.
5. Mitigation strategies like restoring mangroves and wetlands can help buffer coastal areas against the impacts of sea level rise.

Review Questions

• How does glacial melt contribute to sea level rise and what implications does this have for coastal regions?
  • Glacial melt significantly contributes to sea level rise as glaciers and ice sheets lose mass due to warming temperatures. This melting releases freshwater into the oceans, increasing overall sea levels. Coastal regions face dire implications from this phenomenon, including higher flooding risks during storms and loss of land due to erosion, threatening communities and ecosystems.
• Discuss how thermal expansion of seawater plays a role in rising sea levels and its potential impacts on marine life.
  • Thermal expansion occurs when seawater heats up and expands, leading to an increase in sea level. This process is significant as ocean temperatures continue to rise due to climate change. The resulting higher sea levels can lead to habitat loss for marine life, especially in shallow coastal areas where species rely on stable environments for breeding and feeding.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of unchecked sea level rise on global populations and economies, considering current trends in climate change.
  • Unchecked sea level rise poses severe long-term consequences for global populations and economies. Communities living in low-lying coastal areas may face displacement, leading to significant social and economic disruption. Infrastructure damage from flooding can strain local economies, while agricultural lands may be rendered unproductive due to saltwater intrusion. If current climate change trends persist, we could witness widespread migration, increased conflict over resources, and growing disparities between affected and unaffected regions.

Related terms

glacial melt:

The process by which glaciers lose mass and volume due to rising temperatures, contributing to sea level rise.

thermal expansion:

The increase in water volume that occurs when water heats up, resulting in a rise in sea levels.

coastal erosion: The process where coastlines are worn away by the action of waves, currents, tides, and wind, often exacerbated by rising sea levels.