10. Recent And Predicted Climate Change And The Potential Impact On Coasts

Question 1

What two processes are causing current sea level change?

Answer 1

An increase in the volume of oceans due to melting ice caps and thermal expansion
Subsidence of the coast

Question 2

What are the potential impacts of rising sea levels in coasts?

Answer 2

Increased coastal flooding
Coastal erosion in areas previously above high tide
Receding coastlines
Upstream movement of the zone where sea water meets fresh water in a river
Flooding further inland due to rivers
More and more severe extreme sea level events like storm surges
Erosion of dunes, salt marshes and mudflats
Increased investment in coastal protection