Climate changes and sea level rise: Implications on coastal area utilization and management in South-east Asia

Abstract

By the next century, global warming due to an intensifying greenhouse effect could cause profound climate changes and accelerate sea level rise. These may have significant effects on the coastal areas of South-east Asia. These areas are densely populated and support a broad range of diversified economic activities. The physical environment of the region is briefly reviewed as well as the various socio-economic activities in the coastal areas. The physical impact of sea level rise include coastal erosion and inundation of low-lying areas, salt intrusion, flooding due to storm surges and high tides as well as habitat loss. Possible economic impact of sea level rise include the destruction of properties along the coast, changes in land use patterns, water management systems, navigation and waste management. In addition, climate changes will alter precipitation and evaporation patterns, increase cyclone frequency and drought stress which could compound the impact of sea level rise on the coastal zone. Some strategies for the mitigation of sea level rise impact such as zoning and land use management, erosion and flood control, water management, reinforcement of existing coastal structures and waste management are discussed. It is advisable to include climate risk factors in coastal management strategies in order to cushion climate changes and sea level rise impact attributed to a greenhouse effect.