Why seawalls create a false sense of security as oceans rise

Seawalls are common along coastlines around the world. They are built to protect coastal communities from flooding and erosion caused by waves and storms. However, as sea levels rise  to climate change, seawalls become increasingly ineffective. In fact, they can create a false sense of security, putting people and property at greater risk.

What are dams?

A dike is a structure that is built along a coast to prevent erosion and flooding. Partitions can be made of concrete, stone or wood. As a rule, these are vertical walls that extend from the ground to the level of the highest tides.

Where are dams used?

Dams are used in many countries of the world. They are especially common in developed countries where coastal property is valuable. Dams are also used in developing countries where they can protect coastal communities from flooding and erosion.

Dams and sea level rise

As sea levels rise, seawalls become less effective at protecting coastal communities. This is because seawalls are designed to protect against waves and storms of a certain size. As sea levels rise, waves and storms become bigger and levees cannot withstand them.

Why dams create a false sense of security

Levees can create a false sense of security, giving people the impression that they are protected from flooding and erosion. This is not always the case. Dams can fail, and when they do, they can cause significant damage.

What do oceanologists say?

Oceanographers say levees are not a sustainable solution to rising sea levels. They argue that the dams will eventually fail and that they will do more harm than good in the long run.

According to the IPCC, sea levels are expected to rise by 0.5-1 meter by the end of the century.

The cost of building and maintaining sea dams is estimated at billions of dollars.

Dams can have a negative impact on marine ecosystems.

Some people believe that levees are a necessary evil to protect coastal communities from flooding and erosion.

Others believe that levees are not a sustainable solution to sea level rise.

What do you think? Are levees a sustainable solution to sea level rise? Share your thoughts in the comments below.