Impacts Of Sea Level Rise On Nature
The impacts of global warming will be felt across the globe. These are a few of the many examples of the impacts of sea level rise on nature.
Disappearing Wetlands
Coastal wetlands are especially vulnerable because they are within a few feet of sea level. In the United States, a sea level rise of one foot (0.3m) could eliminate 17–43% of today’s wetlands, with more than half the loss in Louisiana. As sea level rises, new wetlands will form further inland, but the total area will probably be reduced. In developed areas, dikes and other structures will prevent new wetlands from forming.
Coral Bleaching
Corals weakened by a variety of stresses are susceptible to “bleaching.” This occurs when the microscopic algae that give corals their brilliant color die. In 1997 and 1998, a large El Niño event contributed to bleaching in tropical corals around the world. Over the next century, warming of the oceans, in combination with other stressors such as sea level rise and water pollution, could lead to an increase in bleaching events.
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Coral Bleaching
The algae in this coral died giving it a bleached appearance. (Photo courtesy of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration/Department of Commerce) |
Coastal Erosion
Over the past century, approximately 70% of the world’s shorelines have been retreating due to sea level rise and increased erosion. Over the next century, increased erosion is likely as sea level rises. Erosion will increase along different types of unprotected shoreline, including the low-lying barrier dunes of the southern U.S. Atlantic Coast and the soft cliff coasts of California.
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