Page 19 - SGG_220316_Teachers_Handbook_Module_7

Flooding of coastal regions

Rising sea levels cause problems for people around the world. Many people will have to leave their
homes, but the number will vary depending on how we act, by reducing global emissions and
improving flood defences.

Nearly 4 in 10 people (39%) live within 100 kilometres from a shoreline and are at
risk of flooding if sea levels continue to rise. 600 million of these people live in a
'low-level coastal zone', and 200 million on a coastal flood plain.

Much of coastal Bangladesh is very close to sea level. Thus, sea-level rise is expected
to cause widespread flooding as the climate continues to change. This low-lying
area, vulnerable to flooding, is home to 18 million people.

Figure. Sea Level Change in Bangladesh; source: https://scied.ucar.edu/image/sea-level-change-
bangladesh

Flooding

An increase in flooding is another danger.

Countries that flood regularly, such as Bangladesh, are expected to see even more regular floods,
putting more communities at risk.

Damage to marine ecosystems

Increasing temperatures, rising seas, melting ice, and other changes can threaten the habitat of many
plants and animals. Some species are moving to new habitats, but others may struggle to adapt and
become endangered or extinct.
Rising ocean temperatures, ocean acidification, and ocean anoxia (lack of oxygen) are damaging to
marine life such as fish and coral reefs.

This project has been funded with support from the European Commission. This communication reflects the
views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the

information contained therein.