Just for nutty @nippy Global sea levels are rising due to human-induced climate change, primarily from melting glaciers and ice sheets, and thermal expansion of seawater as it warms. The rate of sea-level rise is accelerating, with global mean sea level rising by about 25 cm since 1880, and half of that rise occurring since 1970. Here's a more detailed explanation: Causes of Sea Level Rise: Melting Glaciers and Ice Sheets:As global temperatures increase, glaciers and ice sheets (like those in Greenland and Antarctica) melt at faster rates, adding water to the oceans. Thermal Expansion:Warmer ocean water expands, taking up more space and contributing to sea level rise. Human-Induced Climate Change:The primary driver of these changes is the increase in greenhouse gas emissions from human activities, which trap heat and lead to rising global temperatures. Impacts of Sea Level Rise: Coastal Erosion:Rising sea levels can lead to increased coastal erosion, damaging infrastructure and habitats. Flooding:Coastal areas become more vulnerable to flooding, particularly during storm surges and high tides. Salinization of Water Sources:Rising sea levels can contaminate freshwater sources with saltwater, impacting water availability and quality. Displacement of Populations:In extreme cases, rising sea levels can force people to relocate from coastal areas. Regional Variations: While global sea level rise is a major concern, regional variations exist due to factors like ocean currents, winds, and land subsidence. Some regions may experience more rapid or less rapid sea level rise than others. Future Projections: Even if greenhouse gas emissions were to stop immediately, sea levels would continue to rise for centuries due to the slow response of the oceans and ice sheets to warming. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) projects that global mean sea level could rise by at least 0.3 meters (1 foot) by 2100, even with low emission scenarios. NASA's Sea Level Change Portal (.gov) projects that the rate of sea level rise will hit 0.26 inches (0.66 centimeters) per year by 2050. UNSW Sydney notes that a rise of nearly 2m by 2100 and 5m by 2150 cannot be ruled out. Sydney's Situation: Sydney, as a coastal city, is vulnerable to the impacts of sea level rise. UNSW Sydney notes that the rate of sea-level rise along the south-east coast of Australia is about 2–4mm/yr. AdaptNSW states that sea level is committed to rise for centuries to millennia due to continuing deep ocean warming and ice sheet melt, and will remain elevated for thousands of years. AdaptNSW states that if warming is limited to 1.5°C, global mean sea level will rise by about 2 to 3m. for 5° 19 to 22m is expected.
