Planning a beach holiday for the year 2100? The travel agent might suggest Dolphin Sands in Tasmania. If sea levels rise by a metre – the estimated outcome at current temperature patterns – flood maps based on NASA data show that this nine-mile stretch of golden sand may be one of the only remaining beaches on the planet.
Even with significant investment in sea defences, many of the world’s current coves are likely to be washed over or wiped out, effectively submerged by water as a result of the melting polar ice sheets. A tough and immediate reduction in greenhouse gases would only limit frothing sea levels to 50cm, but as the Climate Action Tracker report from June shows, we’re now producing more carbon dioxide emissions than ever before.
The general consensus from climate scientists is that rising temperatures will make extreme weather events more frequent. Prolonged droughts and ferocious storms could lead to widespread flooding and regular wildfires, plus the destruction of natural habitats. Unfortunately, the world’s most beloved tourist landmarks won’t be sheltered from these environmental impacts either – and many will need our help to survive. Here are the major sites at risk from climate change.
Also Read: Seven ways travel can benefit your mental health
Also Read: Hiking, canyoning, climbing and more: finding adventure in the Middle East
Great Barrier Reef, Australia
from
via Lonely Planet India
No comments:
Post a Comment