In 2023, the global community witnessed an unprecedented acceleration in sea level rise, particularly along the U.S. Southeast and Gulf coasts, bringing to the forefront the immediacy of the climate crisis. Studies published in journals such as Nature Communications have underscored the compounded effects of internal climate variability on this phenomenon, highlighting an urgent call to action for all sectors of society​​.
Thanks to the comprehensive data collected by NASA over the past three decades, we now have a clearer understanding of the trends and drivers behind rising sea levels. By 2024, projections indicate a continued increase, threatening coastal and low-lying communities worldwide with increased flooding, erosion, and saltwater intrusion into freshwater sources​​.
The United Nations has amplified the alarm, pointing out that rising sea levels pose ‘unthinkable’ risks, potentially leading to mass exoduses, fierce competition for resources, and significant impacts on global security, economies, and human rights. With some nations’ coastlines already experiencing triple the average rate of sea level rise, the time to act is now.
As members of the Ecological Servants Project and stewards of our environment, we are uniquely positioned to contribute to the fight against this looming crisis. Here are some actions that we, as EcoServants, can take to mitigate the effects of rising sea levels:
Reduce Carbon Footprint: At the heart of sea level rise is climate change, primarily driven by greenhouse gas emissions. By reducing our carbon footprint—whether through adopting renewable energy sources, optimizing energy use in our homes, or choosing sustainable transportation options—we can contribute to the global effort to slow down global warming.
Support Coastal Restoration Projects: Engage in or support initiatives aimed at restoring mangroves, coral reefs, and wetlands. These ecosystems act as natural barriers against storm surges and absorb carbon dioxide, playing a critical role in mitigating the impacts of sea level rise.
Advocate for Climate Policies: Advocate for robust climate policies at local, national, and international levels that aim to reduce emissions, protect vulnerable communities, and invest in renewable energy. By voicing our support for such policies, we can help steer our societies towards more sustainable futures.
Educate and Raise Awareness: As EcoServants, we possess the knowledge and platforms to educate others about the causes and consequences of sea level rise. Through community workshops, social media campaigns, or school programs, we can raise awareness and inspire action among a wider audience.
Support Sustainable Practices: Support businesses and practices that prioritize sustainability, whether it’s through purchasing products made from sustainable materials, supporting local and organic agriculture, or investing in companies with strong environmental commitments.
Participate in Citizen Science: Engage in citizen science projects that monitor local sea levels, weather patterns, or the health of coastal ecosystems. This data can be invaluable for researchers and policymakers in crafting more effective responses to sea level rise.
The challenge of rising sea levels is immense, but it is not insurmountable. As EcoServants, we have both the responsibility and the power to contribute to the global efforts to address this crisis. Through collective action, education, and advocacy, we can work towards a more resilient and sustainable future for our planet.