Advances in seawater are increasingly becoming a reality for many coastal areas around the world, including Brazil. A recent study by Climate Central points to an alarming future for five Brazilian coastal regions, which could be significantly submerged by the end of the century. Understand what these areas are and what is at stake.
What causes sea level rise?
According to data from NASAAccording to the US space agency, in the past three decades alone, global sea levels have risen by about 9.4 cm, with the annual rate of increase gradually accelerating. This phenomenon is mainly due to a combination of two factors: the melting of large ice masses in Greenland and Antarctica, and the thermal expansion of the oceans due to rising global temperatures.
What areas of Brazil are threatened?
- Rio de Janeiro: Coastal areas including Ilha do Governador and Duque de Caxias may face serious flooding.
- to: The vast region of Ilha de Marajó and certain parts of Belém are at risk of flooding.
- Amapa: Areas such as the Peratuba Lake Biological Reserve and Maraca Island may disappear under water.
- Maranhão: Sao Luis and surrounding areas may experience severe flooding.
- Rio Grande do Sul: Porto Alegre, Pelotas and Canoas are among the cities that could be seriously affected.
Are there solutions to mitigate these risks?
The expert committee notes that adopting broad policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions could limit the degree of global warming and, thus, slow the rise in sea levels. Moreover, local preparations and adaptations will be essential to protect vulnerable populations from the direct consequences of climate change.
Important data
According to Climate Central Research, if emissions continue to follow current patterns, the rate of global warming is expected to increase by 3 degrees Celsius, which will lead to rising sea levels capable of submerging areas inhabited by more than 800 million people globally. However, even keeping global warming at 1.5°C will have significant long-term impacts.
Tools and projections
Climate Central has developed an interactive map showing how different regions of the world will be affected by sea level rise under different climate scenarios. This tool is essential for planning and managing the most vulnerable coastal areas around the world, including in Brazil.
It is essential that decision makers and the general public understand the seriousness of these forecasts and collaborate in implementing resilience and mitigation strategies. The situation requires immediate action to avoid the most dangerous scenarios predicted by scientists.
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