Living in a Coastal Enclave Soon to Go Underwater: The Reality and Challenges of Climate Change Adaptation
Recent reports have highlighted the realities of living in areas that are soon to go underwater due to the impact of climate change. As coastlines around the world become increasingly vulnerable, residents in these areas are faced with a range of challenges from property loss to relocation.
The Case of Crescent Beach, Surrey, Canada
One such example is Crescent Beach, a picturesque enclave in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada. Situated on a dramatic cliff, Crescent Beach comprises approximately 400 houses, with properties in the area listed ranging from $1 million to $5 million. Residents like Erik Seiz, who resides there with his family, have capitalized on the beauty and seclusion of their coastal setting. Seiz, a software-technology entrepreneur, has been able to operate his business from home, and his property has undoubtedly appreciated in value by hundreds of thousands or millions of dollars over the past three decades.
Government Buyouts and the Need for Retreat
The reality, however, is that these properties may become worthless without government intervention. The government has acknowledged its responsibility for allowing this community to develop, despite the well-understood impacts of rising sea levels due to global warming. This has led to discussions about government buyouts for properties that are set to be submerged. Erik Seiz is one resident who advocates for this approach, stating, 'It’s not the preferred option of the people who live here.'
Seiz hopes that the city will choose to build some kind of infrastructure that would allow residents to remain in their homes. However, it is unlikely that such an infrastructure can be built to protect these vulnerable coastal areas fully. Approximately 20 percent of Crescent Beach lies below the high-tide mark, and another 10 percent along the Fraser River is at risk of flooding.
Global Patterns and the Broader Impact
The scenario in Crescent Beach is not unique. For decades, people have built homes in flood-prone areas and flood plains, and now they are facing the consequences. This pattern has been repeated globally, with much of the infrastructure and property development in low-lying areas taking place over the past 100 years. The result is that millions of people are now at risk due to rising sea levels, adding stress, anger, and fear to the situation.
The Scale of the Problem
According to research from Cornell University, by the year 2100, nearly 2 billion people, or about one-fifth of the world's population, could become climate change refugees due to rising sea levels. These people, who once lived near coastlines, will face displacement and resettlement challenges as they move inland in search of habitable places. The situation is even more dire in regions without robust governmental safety nets, where the financial consequences of climate change adaptation can be catastrophic.
Implications for Coastal Communities and Global Sustainability
The story of Crescent Beach is a stark reminder of the broader implications of climate change for coastal communities and global sustainability. As nations, organizations, and individuals work towards mitigating the impacts of climate change, it is crucial to consider adaptive measures, including government buyouts and infrastructure planning. However, the reality is that many vulnerable areas around the world may not be able to sustain life in the long term due to the severity of the changes brought about by global warming.
As we face the challenges of climate change, it is imperative that we work towards a more sustainable future that prioritizes both human settlements and environmental protection. The story of Crescent Beach and its residents serves as a cautionary tale, urging us to act now to prevent the displacement and loss of livelihoods that could be caused by unchecked climate change.