Sea Level Rise Poses Severe Threat to Coastal Areas and Ecosystems
• Global sea levels have risen by 20 cm between 1901 and 2018, with the rate accelerating in recent years. This rise is attributed to melting glaciers, ice sheets, and the thermal expansion of seawater. Under a moderate-emissions scenario, global sea levels are projected to rise an additional 56 cm by
• Coastal cities like Mumbai and Kolkata in India are among the most vulnerable, with 770 million people globally at acute risk. The frequency of extreme sea level events, such as storm surges, has increased 12-fold since 1900 and is expected to occur annually in many regions by the end of the century. Coastal ecosystems, including wetlands and coral reefs, are also under threat, with significant biodiversity loss anticipated.
Impact & Risks
Rising sea levels exacerbate flooding, storm surges, and coastal erosion, threatening infrastructure, agriculture, and livelihoods. Coastal cities like Mumbai and Kolkata face heightened risks, particularly for low-income and marginalised communities. Biodiversity is at risk due to habitat loss, with coastal wetlands and coral reefs experiencing significant degradation. Small island nations, including those in the Pacific, face existential threats, with some islands already submerged. Cultural heritage sites, including UNESCO World Heritage locations, are also at risk of damage or destruction due to flooding and erosion.
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