The global sea level has been rising at an annual average rate
of around 0.14 inches (3.5mm) since 1990.
The map above (Sciencedaily), illustrates the uneven
global sea level changes; the yellow patch highlights the Indo-Pacific warm
pool, the area which will be affected the most by anthropogenic warming effects. Some
island nations especially in the Indian and Pacific Oceans, could completely be
submerged if sea level rises by 1m, and other cities such as London and New
York will end up in the same position if the current trend persists. Decreasing land space, but an ever growing population? This can only end badly...
A study did however show that sea level does appear to be falling in areas such as the Seychelles, Zanzibar, and Tanzania.
Through this blog, I aim to
explore these issues further, the causes and consequences of sea level rise, and
look at particular cases such as the threat faced by the Maldives, and other such nations that are at highest risk.
