A recent study has shown that over 25 coastal cities in the US are sinking at a rate of more than 2mm per year. This trend is not limited to the US, as many major cities in China, Tehran, and Jakarta are also experiencing similar issues. The sinking of these cities is being exacerbated by rising sea levels due to global warming. In this article, we will discuss the causes of city sinking and potential solutions to protect them from the encroaching sea with Madeleine Finlay, who interviewed Prof Manoochehr Shirzaei from Virginia Tech University and Prof Robert Nicholls from the University of East Anglia.
Prof Shirzaei and Prof Nicholls shed light on the factors contributing to the sinking of coastal cities, such as groundwater extraction, soil compaction, and geological processes. They also discussed how urban development and infrastructure projects can impact the stability of the land on which these cities are built. Additionally, they delved into the challenges posed by rising sea levels and the urgent need for adaptation strategies to mitigate the risks faced by these sinking cities.
The experts explored potential solutions to address the sinking of coastal cities, including improved land use planning, investment in sustainable infrastructure, and the implementation of nature-based solutions like green infrastructure and wetland restoration. They emphasized the importance of collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and communities to develop holistic approaches to tackle the complex issues of city sinking and sea level rise. By working together, there is hope that these sinking cities can be saved from the threat of the rising sea.
In conclusion, coastal cities around the world are facing an urgent challenge due to rising sea levels caused by global warming. However, with collaboration between scientists, policymakers
