Two Brazilian cities at risk of being swallowed by rising sea levels

Brazil, known for its beautiful beaches and extensive coastline, is increasingly threatened by rising sea levels. Areas such as Rio de Janeiro and We are herean area in São João da Barra, is particularly susceptible to this phenomenon.

Climate change, caused by human action, has devastating effects that must be understood and mitigated.

In recent UN reports, alarming concerns about rising sea levels and their consequences for these Brazilian regions have been highlighted. Let’s understand in detail what these reports reveal and how we can address future challenges.

UN reports on sea level rise

UN studies indicate that between 1990 and 2020, sea levels rose by 13 cm in the Rio de Janeiro and Atafuna areas. Projections indicate an additional increase of 21 cm by 2050.

This growth is due to the melting of polar ice caps and the warming of the oceans caused by greenhouse gas emissions and other human activities that harm the environment.

Impacts on Rio de Janeiro

city Rio de JaneiroThe region, known for its beaches and tourist attractions, faces serious risks from rising sea levels. Storms and flooding have become more frequent and are expected to increase in the coming decades.

Many neighborhoods and important areas are at risk of flooding, threatening infrastructure and the safety of residents. Despite efforts to reduce polluting emissions, the outlook remains bleak.

Atavona: An area at risk

In the north of the state, there is an area We are here It faces a critical situation with coastal erosion that has destroyed more than 200 buildings since the 1970s.

If no measures are taken, the Atafuna could disappear in the coming decades. Moreover, the dynamics of the Paraíba do Sul River are accelerating the erosion process, forcing many families to abandon their homes.

Economic impacts of sea level rise

The economic impacts are profound. Increased frequency and intensity of storms and storm surges cause significant damage. Saltwater intrusion into freshwater sources makes agriculture and fishing, essential to many coastal communities, difficult.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change estimates that as global temperatures rise, extreme sea level rise events could become an annual reality by 2100.

Effects of sea level rise

To meet the challenges of sea level rise, it is necessary to implement several measures:

• Promote the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions through the use of renewable and clean energy.
• Investing in infrastructure that is resilient to climate change and extreme events.
• Protecting natural ecosystems, such as mangroves, that act as protective barriers.
• Educate and raise awareness among coastal communities about risks and adaptation strategies.
• Develop public policies that promote sustainable practices and effective management of water resources.

Experts, including the UN Secretary-General Antonio GuterresHighlighting the importance of these actions to protect vulnerable populations and ensure a sustainable future for Brazil’s coastal areas. The challenge is great, but coordinated and strategic efforts can mitigate the negative impacts and preserve the safety of our coastal cities.