Flooding of Coast Due to Global Warming Essay Example

span over 13,000km along the coastlines of Europe and are crucial for preventing flooding (Forzieri et al 107). Dunes are formed on beaches and are stabilized by plants, which trap soil and prevent it from being carried away by wind. These dunes act as natural barriers during storms and are replenished during calm weather. Regularly nourishing and maintaining coastal dunes is an effective strategy for safeguarding eroding coastlines from floods. Benthic vegetation, such as seagrasses and macroalgae, further enhance wave reduction, particularly when dense and with tall canopies.

The presence of vegetation is crucial in safeguarding coastal areas against flooding and erosion caused by waves. This is achieved through the reduction of wave height, thereby decreasing the risk of flooding from wave overtopping. Additionally, vegetation obstructs current flow, aiding in the prevention of coastal erosion while allowing sediment to settle and promoting sedimentation. The roots of these plants also contribute to stability by preventing re-suspension (Kortetmaki 92). Brackish water salt marshes, commonly found in protected estuaries and bays with shallow water, can be identified by their location at the interface between land and water in coastal regions. These marshes are primarily covered with dense stands of salt-tolerant vegetation such as grasses, herbs, and short shrubs.

Coastal protection mechanisms include wave reduction and soil erosion prevention through the use of trees. Additionally, the trees slow down water movement, leading to increased sedimentation. Salt marshes in estuaries play a crucial role in storing excess water during periods of high river discharge, serving as a defense against river flooding. Reefs, which span vast oceanic areas, are structures that rise from the seabed.

Biogenic reefs, which consist of various organisms such as

mussels, oysters, corals, and polychaete worms, offer protection to the coastline by moderating wave intensity and aiding in sediment cohesion. The mussel beds' irregular arrangement hinders water flow and promotes the settling of sediment. Additionally, these reefs diminish the power of waves and disrupt their formation, thus diminishing wave erosion (Forzieri et al 108). On the other hand, mangroves are trees with intricate root systems that thrive in partially submerged conditions. These trees effectively reduce wind height and intensity, as well as mitigate the impact of swells, thereby reducing the potential damage to sea walls and dikes caused by sediment displacement (Kortetmaki 93).

The presence of mangroves provides various benefits to the coastal ecosystem. Firstly, they decrease the impact of winds on the water surface, thereby preventing wave propagation. This in turn reduces the potential destruction of property and loss of life caused by cyclones and storms, as mangroves weaken the effects of high winds, waves, and storm surges. Additionally, their dense roots play a crucial role in stabilizing the soil by binding its particles together. The above-ground roots also contribute by slowing down water flow, encouraging sediment deposition, and reducing coastal erosion. Over time, the accumulation of sediment can lead to an increase in soil height within mangrove areas. This proves advantageous to humans as it enables mangroves to withstand rising sea levels and mitigate any adverse consequences.

When mangroves are destroyed, there is a significant change in sediment movement patterns, leading to erosion and the disappearance of land into the sea. It is important for human beings to conserve mangroves and other natural resources in order to mitigate climate change and prevent coastal flooding (Ellis

440). Despite the growing population and resulting pressure on natural resources, it is crucial to avoid draining and converting mangroves, wetlands, and forests for human settlement and agriculture. Awareness should be raised about the significance of these resources to prevent future impacts of climate change and global warming. People should be educated on sustainable farming methods, alternatives such as agroforestry and beekeeping to reduce pressure on natural resources, and the importance of conservation and management (Lieske et al 87).

According to Messina (245), establishing appropriate policies among relevant parties is crucial for ensuring the sustainable utilization of resources for the benefit of current and future generations. Developing countries, which are often most affected by climate change impacts, should be encouraged to protect the environment through active engagement in carbon trading, as they possess a significant portion of the world's natural resources. In these developing nations, impoverished individuals may see tree cutting and charcoal burning as necessary for their survival and livelihoods without fully understanding the potential negative consequences (Ellis 440). Conversely, individuals from more developed countries generally have a better understanding of the long-term repercussions of such actions. Ultimately, it is essential to find a balance between environmental ethics and human values to conserve and sustainably utilize the environment while meeting the needs of every individual without causing harm to the environment.

Works Cited
1. Messina, Sergio."International Environmental Law, Policy And Ethics." Review Of European Comparative & International Environmental Law 24.2 (2015): 243-245.
2. Ellis - No further information availableThe article titled "Multi-Hazard Assessment In Europe Under Climate Change" was published in the Climatic Changes journal with volume number 137.1/2 in 2016, spanning pages 105-119. There is also a

separate article titled "Journal Of Applied Philosophy" with volume number 31.4, published in 2014 and covering pages 437-441.

"Health Effects Of Coastal Storms And Flooding In Urban Areas: A Review And Vulnerability Assessment." Journal Of Environmental ; Public Health 2013 (2013): 1-13