Rising sea levels is one of the most alarming effects of climate change. Average sea levels have swelled over 23cm since 1880, with about three of those inches gained in the last 25 years alone. Each year, the sea rises another 3.2mm. This phenomenon is induced by three primary factors: the melting of Greenland ice sheets and poles ice caps, the thermal expansion of ocean waters and melting glaciers.
The change in sea levels is linked to three primary factors, all induced by ongoing global climate change: the melting of Greenland ice sheets and poles ice caps, thermal expansion of ocean waters and melting glaciers.
Coastal erosion, wetland flooding, aquifer and agricultural soil contamination with salt, and lost habitat for fish, birds, and plants are only some of the possible consequences of rising waters. Atolls and small islands are the victims of these phenomena.
Also, higher sea levels are causing the formation of more dangerous hurricanes and typhoons that move more slowly and drop more rain, contributing to more powerful storm surges that can strip away everything in their path.