Final answer:
Coastal regions are where human populations are most vulnerable to climate change, due to high population density, significant habitat destruction, and increased risks from sea level rise, which can lead to widespread disruption and loss of resources for the people living there.
Step-by-step explanation:
Human populations are the most vulnerable to climate change in coastal regions. Coastal areas often have high human population density and have experienced extensive habitat destruction, as well as losses of both terrestrial habitats and nearby coral reefs. With sea levels rising due to climate change, coastal regions face threats such as increased flooding, erosion, and saline intrusion into freshwater supplies. These vulnerabilities can lead to significant disruptions for populations living in these areas, including loss of homes, reduced availability of fresh water, and negative impacts on agriculture and local economies.
Moreover, these communities have historically contributed the least to climate change, making the injustices of their vulnerability even more significant. While there is a proactive trend to adapt and mitigate these effects, such as building coastal defenses and embracing environmental restoration, the risks remain substantial and continue to grow as climate change accelerates. Therefore, considering the multiple factors that exacerbate the susceptibility of coastal regions, they are recognized as one of the areas where populations are at greatest risk from the impacts of climate change.