Climate Change and the Coast

Coastal Systems

Ocean Acidification

pH levels of the ocean are reduced and become more acidic with higher CO2 levels. Marine life such as fish are going to be harmed, reducing biodiversity

Salt-water Intrusion

Rising sea levels push salty water further inland, contaminating fresh-water aquifers. This will impact drinking water quality

Coral Bleaching

When water is too warm, corals will expel the algae (zooxanthellae) living in their tissues causing the coral to turn completely white

Impacts of Climate Change on Coastal Areas

• Increased coastal flooding, causing a loss of villages in low-lying areas

• Roads and rail links are at risk if near the coast

• Habitat destruction - mangroves, salt marshes and coral reefs are affected

• Salt-water intrusion

• Ocean Acidification