Questions around the effects of global warming have once again been raised, this time hot on the heels of rising flood waters in Queensland’s central and southern regions, prompting fresh concern for coastal communities which would be effected by rising sea levels.
Rising sea levels threaten coastal properties
Questions around the effects of global warming have once again been raised, this time hot on the heels of rising flood waters in Queensland’s central and southern regions, prompting fresh concern for coastal communities which would be effected by rising sea levels.
As outlined in the Australian Government’s climate change report around 85% of Australia’s population lives in coastal regions and all of Australia’s state capitals are located within the coastal zone too.
The report also raised concerns about the long-term viability of living on the coast, with some homes already being denied insurance on account of the climate change risk.
It was predicted that sea levels are likely to rise up to a metre or more in the next 100 years. Worst case scenarios point to billions of dollars in infrastructure damage and property loss if waters continue to rise.
Sydney coastline suburbs as well as parts of Newcastle and the Central Coast are also at risk as sea levels rise, threatening homes and local businesses.
Victoria’s popular Portsea foreshore beach has also been the subject of erosion with works being undertaken to resolve the issues at a cost of around $2 million.
Environmental groups are calling for steps to be taken to develop a plan to protect Australia’s coastline properties and beaches so our children’s children can enjoy the beautiful coastline us Australian’s admire so much.
Click here for more on the climate change report:
http://www.climatechange.gov.au/~/media/publications/coastline/cc-risks-full-report.pdf
January 2011
