Rising Sea Levels Pose Growing Risk to Infrastructure and Economy
A comprehensive new scientific report reveals that global sea levels are now rising at twice the rate observed in the previous century, significantly increasing risks to infrastructure, property, and economies worldwide. The findings form part of the Indicators of Global Climate Change report, published in Earth System Science Data and produced by over 60 scientists.
Acceleration of Sea Level Rise
Since 2019, sea levels have been rising at an average rate of 4.3mm per year, compared to 1.8mm annually at the start of the 20th century. This acceleration is attributed primarily to two factors: the continued melting of ice due to a warming atmosphere, and the thermal expansion of seawater as it absorbs heat.
Dr. Aimee Slangen of the NIOZ Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research noted that the rate of rise is “relatively slow,” meaning future increases are already locked in due to past emissions and temperature changes.
Economic and Real Estate Impacts
For countries like the UK, the implications are significant. An estimated 100,000 properties in England are expected to be at risk from coastal erosion over the next 50 years. The UK government has committed £7.9 billion to flood defences in an effort to mitigate these threats, aiming to protect homes, small businesses, and essential infrastructure.
Businesses located in coastal regions face increased risks of property damage, insurance premiums, and disruption to operations. Industries reliant on coastal transport and infrastructure, such as shipping, tourism, and energy, will likely need to adapt strategies to respond to changing environmental conditions.
Emissions and Remaining Carbon Budget
The report also underscores that the world’s remaining carbon budget—how much more CO₂ can be emitted while keeping global temperature rise within 1.5°C—is shrinking rapidly. Since the last major calculation, the allowable emissions to meet this target have decreased by 74%, from 500 billion tonnes to 130 billion tonnes. This allows for approximately three more years of emissions at current levels.
Despite hopes of emissions peaking soon, greenhouse gas levels continue to rise, contributing to a warming rate now measured at an unprecedented 0.27°C per decade.
Call to Action Ahead of COP30
The report calls on governments and industries to accelerate efforts in emissions reductions and climate adaptation ahead of the COP30 climate summit in Brazil this November. Scientists emphasized the need for evidence-based policymaking and updated national climate plans to mitigate long-term risks.
Dr. Valérie Masson-Delmotte from the Institute Pierre Simon Laplace stated, “What happens next depends on the choices which will be made.” She added that sharp reductions in emissions could still limit future warming and reduce the intensification of extreme climate events.
The rise in global sea levels represents not only an environmental concern but a significant and growing business risk. Companies, investors, and policymakers will need to factor these accelerating changes into their strategic planning and risk assessments as the climate continues to shift.
