Impact of Climate Change on International Waters
Overview
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Projected impacts on transboundary water resources due to climate change and climate variability include:
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hydrologic changes, including changes in the timing of streamflow that result in downstream effects;
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reduction in the quality and availability of water supplies;
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potential for increased competition of water resources in transboundary basins;
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acceleration of the retreat and loss of glaciers;
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spread of invasive species and bleeching of coral reefs;
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changes in fisheries habitats;
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intensified shoreline changes, such as coastal erosion.
Adaptation-related projects in the international waters focal area should focus on maintaining or strengthening the resilience of species and/or ecosystems threatened by climate change. Projects should reflect dynamic, long-term response measures.
Impact by region
The above map shows the effects of 14-year cumulative sea surface temperature anomalies and areas of coral bleaching (denoted by red circles). The yellow coloured areas indicate temperatures 1°C above the mean and orange regions indicate anomalies 2°C above the long-term average. (Source: Harvard University Climate Futures Report, 2005)
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