Climate Change and its Impact on Coastal Cities
Climate change is a pressing global issue that affects regions differently. Miami, for instance, is one of the cities experiencing significant impacts.
Impact on the Environment
Miami is experiencing significant sea level rise, leading to frequent flooding, especially during high tides and storms. This is often referred to as "sunny day flooding". The rising sea levels are also causing saltwater intrusion into freshwater supplies, which threatens the local water supply.Left: Projected Sea Level Rise by 2030 (1 foot).
Impact on Animals
Coastal habitats are being submerged, affecting species such as sea turtles that rely on beaches for nesting. The increased salinity in estuaries and wetlands is also impacting fish and bird populations. Warmer ocean temperatures and acidification are also damaging coral reefs, which are vital for marine biodiversityRight: Coral reef disease outbreak linked to a warming Atlantic as of 2021.
Impact on Humans
Higher temperatures and increased humidity are leading to more heat-related illnesses and deaths, particularly among vulnerable populations. Flooding and storm damage also pose significant risks to property and infrastructure, leading to economic strain.
Climate Change and its Impact on Coastal Cities
To address the challenges posed by climate change, Miami has implemented several strategies aimed at mitigating its effects and enhancing the city's resilience.
Infrastructure Improvements
Miami is investing in infrastructure projects such as raising roads and installing stormwater pumps to manage flooding, and constructing seawalls and barriers to protect against storm surges and high tides. These efforts are part of the city's broader strategy to enhance resilience against sea level rise.Left: Keystone-faced seawall on Miami Beach.
Policy and Planning
Local organizations are working with communities to develop comprehensive climate action plans that include measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency. The city aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.Right: 2013 Sustainability Action Plan poster.
See Below: Florida's Near-Term Climate Impacts
Climate Change and its Impact on Coastal Cities
Miami is not alone in facing the adverse effects of climate change. Other cities around the world, such as Venice, Italy, are experiencing similar challenges.
Impacts in Venice, Italy
Like Miami, Venice is experiencing frequent flooding due to rising sea levels, which disrupts daily life, affects tourism, and damages historic buildings. The city has implemented the MOSE project, a series of movable barriers designed to protect it from high tides.Left: Tourists in Venice walking through a flood.
Both Miami and Venice highlight the global nature of climate change and the need for international cooperation to address these challenges.
Works Cited
1.) City Experiences - How Venice is Innovating in the Face of Climate Changehttps://www.cityexperiences.com/blog/venice-climate-change/2.) Miami-Dade County - Environment - Impact on South Floridahttps://www.miamidade.gov/environment/climate-change-impact.asp3.) Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission - Impacts on Florida's Fish and Wildlifehttps://myfwc.com/conservation/special-initiatives/climate-change/impacts/4.) Miami New Times - Climate Change Effects in Miamihttps://www.miaminewtimes.com/news/climate-change-effects-in-miami-flooding-property-damage-and-heat-related-deaths-114895235.) City of Miami - Climate Change Actionhttps://www.miami.gov/My-Government/Climate-Change-in-the-City-of-Miami/Climate-Change-Action