UN Warns of "Urgent and Escalating" Sea Level Rise Threat

New York, August 27, 2024 - The United Nations has sounded the alarm on rising sea levels, describing the phenomenon as an "urgent and escalating threat" to people worldwide. According to the UN's World Meteorological Organization, the average sea level globally reached a record high in 2023, with the rate of increase doubling over the last decade.

The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, has been visiting Pacific Ocean nations, including Tonga and Samoa, where sea level rise is a major concern. Global leaders and experts will gather at the UN on September 25 to discuss ways to address the threat.

Rising sea levels are driven by climate change, with ocean warming and melting glaciers and ice sheets contributing to the increase. The consequences are far-reaching, including flooding, damage to coastal habitats and infrastructure, and displacement of communities.

The UN is urging countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to slow down global warming and mitigate the effects of sea level rise. Adaptation measures, such as building sea walls and restoring natural barriers, are also necessary to protect vulnerable communities.

Small island nations and densely populated coastal areas are among the most at risk. The UN is providing support to these countries and facilitating international coordination to address the crisis.

Source: UN News