Sea Level Rise

Syllabus: GS3/Environment Degradation; Disaster Management

Context

• The phenomenon of sea level rise (SLR) is a global challenge, India’s vast and densely populated coastal regions are particularly vulnerable.

Sea level rise

• Sea level rise is an increase in the level of the world’s oceans due to the effects of global warming.
• Causes :  Rising sea levels are caused by ocean warming and the melting of glaciers and ice sheets, both driven by climate change.
  • Even with global warming limited to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels (as per the Paris Agreement), sea levels will still rise significantly.
  • Ocean circulation patterns, like the Gulf Stream, can cause regional variations in sea level rise

Present Status 

• Global Rise:
  • Since 1880, global sea levels have risen by approximately 20 centimetres. 
  • If greenhouse gas emissions continue unabated, projections indicate this figure could soar by up to 1.2 metres by the end of the century. 
  • Sea levels were increasing by around 2 mm/year in 1993.
    • This rate has since doubled and climate researchers expect floods in coastal areas will increase threefold by 2050.
• Scenario in India:  India’s coastline, stretching over 7,500 kilometres, is a hub of cultural vibrancy, economic activity and biodiversity.
  • SLR has catastrophic consequences, particularly for major urban centres like Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata. 
  • The Sundarbans, the world’s largest contiguous mangrove forest, could lose up to 80% of its area by 2100, endangering biodiversity. 
  • Similarly, the nesting grounds of Olive Ridley turtles on Odisha’s coast are at risk due to rising flooding and erosion, disrupting their breeding cycles and food sources.

Concerns with Increase in Sea Level

• Flooding: It leads to more frequent and severe flooding in coastal areas, threatening infrastructure, homes, and livelihoods.
• Displacement: Rising seas force communities to relocate, leading to displacement and potential conflicts over resources.
• Saltwater Intrusion: Salinity contaminates freshwater sources, affecting drinking water supplies and agriculture.
• Economic Impact: Coastal industries, such as fishing and tourism are severely impacted, leading to job losses and economic instability in affected regions.
• Biodiversity Loss: Ecosystems like mangroves and coral reefs are threatened, impacting biodiversity and the services these ecosystems provide.
• Health Risks: Flooding leads to the spread of waterborne diseases.

India’s Efforts to Combat Climate Change

• Renewable Energy Expansion: India has announced its aim to meet 50% of its electricity demands from renewable energy sources by 2030.
  • It has invested heavily in solar and wind energy projects, with the goal of reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
• International Commitments: India is a signatory to the Paris Agreement, committing to reduce its carbon intensity and increase the share of non-fossil fuel energy sources in its total energy mix.
• Afforestation and Forest Conservation: Recognizing the role of forests in carbon sequestration and climate regulation, India has initiated programs to increase forest cover, restore degraded lands, and promote sustainable forest management practices.
• Clean Transportation: India is promoting the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and has set a target of 30% EV market share by 2030. 
  • The government has introduced incentives and subsidies to support the production and adoption of EVs.
• Climate Resilience: India is investing in measures to enhance climate resilience and adaptation, particularly in vulnerable sectors such as agriculture, water resources, and coastal areas. 
• International Cooperation: India actively participates in international forums and collaborations on climate change, engaging in initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.

What More Needs to be done ?

• India has implemented the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification (1991) to protect coastal areas but its enforcement is inconsistent.
  • There is a need for adaptation of laws to address climate change impacts, including rising sea levels and stronger storms.
• Adaptation and Mitigation Strategies include sea walls, early warning systems, and restoration of natural barriers like mangroves and wetlands.
  • Mangrove afforestation can reduce wave energy and prevent soil erosion.
  • Floating agriculture and salt-resistant crops can help farmers in vulnerable coastal areas.
• India can seek technical and financial assistance from wealthier nations to address SLR impacts, as part of its commitments to the UNFCCC.
  • Global collaboration is needed to fund infrastructure, technology, and migration programs for affected populations

Concluding Remarks 

• Rising sea levels represent a socio-economic and humanitarian crisis for India’s coastal regions.
• Immediate and coordinated action is necessary to safeguard coastal populations, ecosystems, and cultural heritage.
• Sustainable development and adaptation measures will ensure a resilient future for India’s coastline.

Source: DTE