Coastal Landscapes - Future Resiliency and Adaptation Planning

Climate Change Impacts

Coastal landscapes are among the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, particularly from sea-level rise and increasingly severe storms. These areas often densely populated, making them highly susceptible to the impacts of coastal flooding. Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of coastal storms. As sea levels rise, storm surges can reach further inland, causing more extensive flooding and erosion.

Increased Flooding

Sea level rise is causing more frequent and severe flooding in coastal communities. This is leading to property damage, displacement of residents, and disruption of businesses. As sea levels continue to rise, flooding will become increasingly common. By 2050, it is estimated that sea levels will rise by one foot, increasing the risk of flooding for millions of people.

Infrastructure Damage

Coastal flooding can damage roads, bridges, and other infrastructure. This can make it difficult for people to evacuate during storms and can disrupt essential services. In 2012, Hurricane Sandy caused an estimated $19 billion in damage to infrastructure in New York City alone.

Loss of Coastal Wetlands

Coastal wetlands are natural buffers that help to protect coastal communities from flooding and erosion. However, these wetlands are being lost due to sea-level rise and development. It is estimated that we have lost over half of the world's coastal wetlands since the 1900s.

Erosion

Sea-level rise is also causing increased erosion of coastal beaches and bluffs. This can lead to the loss of property and infrastructure. It can also make coastal communities more vulnerable to flooding and storms.

Adaptation and Resiliency Planning

In order to adapt to the impacts of climate change, coastal communities need to develop plans for resiliency. These plans should include measures to reduce flooding, protect infrastructure, and restore coastal wetlands.

Reduce Flooding

There are a number of ways to reduce flooding in coastal communities. These include building seawalls and levees, elevating buildings, and restoring wetlands. Seawalls and levees are physical barriers that help to keep floodwaters out of communities. Elevating buildings can also help to reduce the risk of flooding. Restoring wetlands can help to absorb floodwaters and reduce erosion.

Protect Infrastructure

Coastal communities also need to protect their infrastructure from the impacts of flooding. This can include elevating roads and bridges, and reinforcing buildings. In addition, communities can develop plans to evacuate residents and businesses in the event of a flood.

Restore Coastal Wetlands

Coastal wetlands are natural buffers that help to protect coastal communities from flooding and erosion. Restoring these wetlands can help to reduce the impacts of climate change. There are a number of ways to restore coastal wetlands, including planting native vegetation, removing invasive species, and restoring hydrology.

Conclusion

The impacts of climate change are already being felt in coastal communities around the world. In order to adapt to these impacts, communities need to develop plans for resiliency. These plans should include measures to reduce flooding, protect infrastructure, and restore coastal wetlands. By taking these steps, coastal communities can become more resilient to the impacts of climate change.