International Sea Level Institute

Climate Change, Anthropocene, & Associated Issues

Date posted: 01/10/16

After 5,000 years of stability, we have entered a new era of rising seas. Our shorelines are moving inland, slowly, inevitably, building into an unstoppable and disruptive force. We have passed the tipping point. Fortunately, we have a window of time to prevent the worst by preparing for higher seas now. By acting today, we can leave a solid foundation for future generations, while creating tremendous opportunities for economic growth. Already, sea level rise coupled with extreme tides and severe storms are causing enormous loss of land and coastal infrastructure. With each passing year, the rate of rise accelerates, as does the potential for economic devastation. Yet the damage could be lessened significantly if we have the vision and guidance to plan for this profound change. The Institute will be crucial in helping global communities adapt to the coming changes, and turn potential tragedy into opportunity. The sooner that planners, engineers, architects, lawyers, financiers, legislators, investors, business leaders, and the public become informed, the quicker we can begin to take the necessary actions. With vision, creativity and planning, we can protect the future livability and sustainability of coastal cities as well as many impacted inland communities.