Sea Level Rise

A recent article by the NY Times highlights the major impacts of global climate change, partially as a result of human emissions, as well as future uncertainty. The article focuses on recent research indicating that sea levels are rising at the fastest rate in the last twenty-eight centuries. The research conducted by Stefan Rahmstorf indicated that if emissions remain at their current levels, sea levels will rise between three to four feet by 2100. It should be noted that that one of his earlier estimates for sea level rise by 2100 was five to six feet. Moreover, the article highlights the recent increase in coast flooding and the impacts flooding has on communities.

This article relates to many topics we have discussed in class this semester. While scientists agree that sea level rise, global temperature increases, and other climatic changes will result from continued or increased carbon emissions, it is uncertain to what degree those changes in the climate will occur. Uncertainty makes it hard to determine the proper discount rate and exact user costs associated with fossil fuel consumption.

 

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