5 strategies for adaptation to sea level rise
The image you’ve shared outlines a strategy called “Build on Fill” for adaptation to rising sea levels. Here’s a breakdown of the approach:
Existing Conditions
The top section shows the current state of development, where homes and infrastructure are situated at or near existing water levels, making them vulnerable to flooding due to sea level rise.
Key Tools for Future Adaptation
The image presents three key tools for adapting to future conditions:
- Elevate on Fill (A)
This involves raising the land itself by adding fill material, elevating buildings and infrastructure to a safer height above projected future sea levels. This approach provides a physical buffer against flooding. - Improve Seawalls (B)
Enhancing existing seawalls or constructing new, higher barriers to protect land from encroaching water. Improved seawalls act as a defense against waves and storm surges, reducing the risk of inundation. - Raise Roads (C)
Roads and other critical infrastructure are elevated, ensuring they remain functional during flooding events and rising sea levels. Elevated roads provide safe access routes, especially during extreme weather events.
Future Adaptation
The bottom section shows the results of these strategies, with homes, roads, and seawalls all raised or enhanced to prevent flooding. By applying these tools, the development is more resilient to future sea level rise, ensuring the safety of both infrastructure and residents.
This approach integrates nature-based and infrastructural solutions to manage the risks associated with climate change, especially in coastal urban areas.
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