SEA-LEVEL rise is among the most ominous of multifaceted risks attributed to climate change, and has serious implications for billions of people. Rising sea levels are one of the primary indicators of global warming, originating in the early 20th century, when fossil fuels consumed by the expanding industrial complex released huge amounts of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. While extreme weather events induced by climate change cause huge damage during short spells, the long-term risks associated with sea-level rise are equally lethal and pose serious threats to life.

Sea levels rise in two ways: through melting glaciers and ice sheets releasing more water, and through thermal expansion due to an increase in global temperatures. The year 2023 was confirmed as the hottest year on record by a clear margin, and this year, many parts of the world have experienced record-breaking heatwaves. According to the World Meteorological Organisation’s (WMO) State of Global Climate report, “In 2023, global mean sea level reached a record high in the satellite record (since 1993), reflecting continued ocean warming (thermal expansion) as well as the melting of glaciers and ice sheets”.

Its impact on coastline communities is deeply disturbing........

© Dawn