Sea levels around the world are rising. Nowhere is this more apparent than in Florida, where the Sunshine State’s long, low-lying coastline means it’s especially vulnerable. Rising sea levels in the state are an area of particular interest and expertise for marine geochemist and chemical oceanographer David Hastings.
As global temperatures increase, the planet’s oceans absorb much of this heat, leading to thermal expansion. Combined with runoff from melting ice sheets in Antarctica and Greenland, the result is a rise in sea levels. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change estimates that sea levels could rise by as much as three feet by the end of the century.
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A Devastating Effect on Florida
David Hastings says that a rise of this magnitude would have a devastating effect on Florida, where the state’s coastline is already prone to flooding. An increase in flooding puts the already at-risk Sunshine State in further danger of various environmental disasters.
Saltwater intrusion will destroy natural habitats, putting wildlife, plants, and many species at risk. In addition, flooding caused by rising sea levels will lead to irreversible beach erosion. Not only is such erosion catastrophic for natural systems, it is also a considerable threat to the livelihoods of those who depend on Florida’s vital tourism industry centered in coastal communities.
Elsewhere, Florida’s infrastructure is at considerable risk from even small rises in sea levels. For example, vital thoroughfares become increasingly vulnerable to flooding. Sewers, water treatment plants, and other critical utilities also face inundation and saltwater intrusion, leading to breakdowns in public services.
Active Steps to Address Sea Level Rise
Thankfully, Florida’s government is taking active steps to address the threat of rising sea levels, marine geochemist Professor Hastings reports. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection has already developed a Sea Level Rise Action Plan, which outlines strategies to reduce the risk of flooding and other dangers.
These strategies include mapping flood zones, constructing flood barriers, and encouraging green infrastructure, such as mangrove restoration and coastal wetlands. However, those in positions to do so must take even greater action to mitigate the threats posed by rising sea levels.
Accordingly, David Hastings is on a mission to help implement long-term strategies to reduce the risk of flooding and mitigate the effects of sea level rise in Florida in the coming years.
David Hastings
Hastings first landed on the shores of Florida’s Tampa Bay over two decades ago to teach marine science at Eckerd College in St. Petersburg. The institution’s waterfront position means it’s considered a “beach school,” perfect for those studying marine science.
Although now retired, the former professor remains focused on climate change, and policy efforts to mitigate the worst effects of climate changes. He also firmly believes that scientists engaged in climate science should engage in active policy conversations.
Such conversations, both with elected officials and the public, are just one of the many imperative courses of action now required in Florida. That is to mitigate the worst impacts of rising sea levels while safeguarding the planet’s future in other areas of science and elsewhere.
