Impacts of Climate Change on Coastal Zones
Overview
> Jump to impact by region
Coastal erosion, already a problem due to maladaptive practices in many regions, is likely to be exacerbated by climate change, specifically by the increase in sea levels and frequency of storm surges. Expected impacts include:
-
inundation of coastal regions and other lowlands;
-
damage to settlements and coastal infrastructure; and
-
threatened livelihoods in agriculture, tourism, infrastructure, and other key economic sectors.
Not all regions will be similarly affected, as some will be more vulnerable than others.
Adaptation programmes and projects should focus on reducing vulnerability and/or increasing the capacity of communities, institutions, and/or ecosytems to adapt to climate change and variability in coastal zones. Adaptation may include coastal protection measures, institutional strengthening for climate-resilient coastal zone development and planning and/or capacity development at various scales to manage climate-related coastal risks.
Impact by region
The figure above, based on Natural Disaster Hotspots: A Global Risk Analysis (Dilley et al, 2005), shows cyclone mortality risks. Coastal regions highlighted in red face the highest risk of significant impacts, while coastal areas in blue have the lowest hazard risks.
| |
|
