As climate change continues to escalate unabated, one of its most devastating effects—namely the dramatic rise in sea water levels—is becoming increasingly palpable. While the threat of global warming persistently looms on the horizon, it is the most vulnerable populations residing near coastlines that are the first to confront its destructive power. Every day, people across the globe struggle to contend with the devastating effects of rising sea levels caused by global warming.
The effects of global warming on sea water levels, fuelled in part by the melting of polar ice caps, is also causing other environmental hazards, such as coastal flooding, declining sea ice and coral bleaching. The sight of once charming coastal villages flooding, coral reefs being crushed by massive waves, and ice sheets shrinking to the size of pillowcases, is disturbingly becoming more commonplace. Rising sea levels will continue to endanger the lives of many, especially in low-lying regions, by displacing their settlements, drying up fresh water sources, and endangering agricultural activities.
At the same time, this increased water level also comes with certain benefits, such as making sea routes more navigable and increasing the yields of fishing activities. In some places, due to the abundant amount of food provided by the ocean, the population is able to sustain itself by harvesting it directly. Moreover, coastal-dwellers in the United States and the rest of world are likely to benefit from the rising sea level, as goods and services associated with their coastlines become more accessible.
Contrary to popular belief, global warming is not the only cause of rising sea levels; other factors, such as geologic activity and human activities, also contribute to this phenomenon. As most of the world’s water resources are under the control of humans, it is our collective responsibility to help reduce the amount of pollution that is contributing to global warming and its subsequent effects. Individuals should take it upon themselves to reduce the emissions their lifestyle produces. Reducing plastic and other pollution, choosing renewable forms of energy, taking public transportation, and reusing items when possible, are just some of the ways in which we can help in the fight against global warming and its numerous effects.
In conclusion, global warming is a real issue that must be addressed, and its effects on sea water levels cannot be ignored. We need to take urgent and drastic actions to reduce global warming, as it is our future generations who may have to suffer the most. Ultimately, it is our responsibility to protect this planet and do what we can to reduce the damage already caused by global warming.
