Sea level rise

Definition

Sea level rise refers to the increase in the level of the Earth's oceans due to a combination of melting ice sheets and glaciers, and the thermal expansion of seawater as it warms. This phenomenon is a significant consequence of climate change and poses serious risks to coastal regions, ecosystems, and human activities related to tourism, which rely on stable coastlines and access to marine environments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The global average sea level has risen about 8-9 inches since 1880, with acceleration observed in recent decades due to climate change.
2. Sea level rise threatens coastal tourism destinations, leading to potential economic losses in regions heavily dependent on beach-related activities.
3. Low-lying areas are particularly vulnerable to inundation, affecting infrastructure and habitats crucial for tourism and local economies.
4. Estimates suggest that by 2100, sea levels could rise by 1 to 4 feet, depending on future greenhouse gas emissions and ice sheet dynamics.
5. Tourism management must adapt to sea level rise through strategies like sustainable development, infrastructure resilience, and environmental conservation efforts.

Review Questions

• How does sea level rise impact coastal tourism destinations?
  • Sea level rise can severely affect coastal tourism destinations by increasing the risk of flooding and erosion. As beaches and recreational areas become submerged or damaged, tourist attractions may lose their appeal, leading to decreased visitor numbers. Additionally, critical infrastructure like hotels, restaurants, and transport links can be threatened by rising waters, resulting in economic losses for local communities dependent on tourism revenue.
• Evaluate the relationship between climate change and sea level rise in the context of global tourism.
  • The relationship between climate change and sea level rise is critical for global tourism as climate change leads to higher temperatures, resulting in melting glaciers and thermal expansion of ocean waters. This rising sea level threatens iconic coastal destinations that attract millions of tourists each year. As these areas become increasingly vulnerable to flooding and erosion, the tourism industry faces significant challenges in maintaining its viability and protecting its assets, prompting calls for sustainable practices and proactive planning.
• Assess the long-term implications of sea level rise for the future of global tourism and strategies for adaptation.
  • The long-term implications of sea level rise for global tourism are profound, potentially reshaping travel patterns and prioritizing sustainability. Destinations may need to invest in protective measures like seawalls or restore natural buffers such as wetlands to safeguard against flooding. Furthermore, tourism stakeholders must develop adaptive strategies that involve assessing risk levels, enhancing infrastructure resilience, promoting eco-friendly practices, and engaging with local communities to ensure that tourism continues to benefit both visitors and residents while preserving essential ecosystems.

Related terms

climate change:

Long-term alterations in temperature, precipitation, wind patterns, and other elements of the Earth's climate system, primarily driven by human activities such as burning fossil fuels.

coastal erosion: The process by which coastlines are eroded by the action of waves, currents, and tides, often exacerbated by rising sea levels.

flooding: An overflow of water that submerges land that is usually dry, often intensified by rising sea levels during storms or high tides.