Question

How would a rise in sea level due to climate change affect coastal processes

Answer 1

Sea level rise affects coasts by increasing flooding and erosion, shifting sand and beaches, and changing the water quality of estuaries, lagoons and coastal lakes.

Sea level rise is causing higher, more extensive and more frequent flooding (inundation) of estuaries and nearby low-lying areas in NSW. Some low-lying areas are likely to be permanently inundated with increasing sea levels.

Answer 2

Rising sea levels create not only stress on the physical coastline, but also on coastal ecosystems. Saltwater intrusions can contaminate freshwater aquifers, many of which sustain municipal and agricultural water supplies and natural ecosystems.