#82 Sea-Level Rising
Are you aware that global sea levels are rising 3.44 millimeters per year? Though it might not look like much of an increase, it is the fastest sea-levels have risen in the last 3,000 years. Let’s learn more.
The Oceans Are Rising:
Once at a gradual incline, the rise in sea levels has accelerated dramatically in the last 100 years. Rising concentrations of greenhouse gases in Earth’s atmosphere increase the temperature of air and water, which melts glaciers and expands water molecules – causing sea-levels to rise. Because of this, glaciers and ice sheets in the Antarctic and in the North are melting at rapid rates. Knowing that the majority of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere come from human activity – it is imperative we act now to reduce our emissions and carbon footprint.
Sea-Level Facts:
270 million tons of ice have melted globally this year, and it is rising every second.
If the rate of ocean rise continues to change at this pace, sea level will rise between 1.3 and 3.9 feet by 2100.
More than 70% of the world’s population lives on coastal plains – including 11 of the world’s 15 largest cities are located in coastal regions.
Even if warming is limited to 2 degrees, which is the international goal, seas could be expected to rise nearly 10 feet by 2300.
If Greenland melts completely, which could happen in 140 years, Miami would disappear entirely – as would most of Manhattan.
Sea-level rise can contaminate water used for drinking and irrigation.
Any coastal animals that can’t quickly move to new, less flood-prone habitats could face dire consequences.
How Can I Make An Impact ?
Action 1: Global Goodness
Reduce your carbon footprint by purchasing less, walking more, and creating mindful actions that support the health of our planet.
Plant trees and foliage. The more plants and trees that are in the environment, the more CO2 is being removed from the atmosphere. Plants also soak up rain – nourishing the soil and preventing it from ending up in the sea.
Action 2: Planet Protector
All of Action 1
Reduce your energy usage. Start by unplugging your chargers, turning off unused lights and opting to pick up a book instead of turning on the tv are all good places to start.
Lobby for a more extensive climate program. It is no longer logical to deny the facts of climate change. We need leaders who realize this is a time sensitive issue that must be acted upon immediately – and take the initiative to protect our precious planet.
Action 3: Earth Angel
All of Action 1 & 2
Get active in your community and share your knowledge on these pressing topics, so you, and the people around you, can make an informed decision and take the appropriate steps in reducing climate change.
Research and support a not for profit that is actively working toward reducing rising sea-levels – as well as working with climate refugees. Just because we aren’t experiencing it locally, doesn’t mean it isn’t already happening globally.
Choose to be an Ambassador for Change, and always Spread Love and Spread Light.
FACTS REFERENCES:
https://climate.nasa.gov/news/2680/new-study-finds-sea-level-rise-accelerating/
https://www.mnn.com/earth-matters/climate-weather/blogs/facts-about-sea-level-rise
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/global-warming/sea-level-rise/
https://www.cnn.com/2015/06/10/opinions/sutter-climate-sea-level-facts/index.html