As climate change continues to wreak havoc across the globe, one of its most alarming and visible effects is the rise in sea levels. Fueled by global warming, this phenomenon is not only reshaping coastlines but also putting coastal communities at grave risk. Beyond environmental damage, rising sea levels have far-reaching consequences, impacting economies, infrastructure, and livelihoods.
A fishing community in the Western Region of Ghana, Anlo Beach, is feeling the brunt of these changes. Over 1,000 houses—roughly 90% of the community’s structures—have been severely damaged by tidal waves, leaving residents in constant fear that their homes, and their way of life, may soon be swallowed by the sea.
Residents have voiced growing concerns about the devastating impact of tidal waves that have plagued the area for decades. Their homes and livelihoods are eroding away, with many fearing that if nothing is done soon, the Anlo Beach community will collapse entirely.
The United Nations (UN) defines climate change as a long-term shift in temperatures and weather patterns, caused mainly by human activities like the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and urbanization. These activities release significant amounts of greenhouse gases, accelerating global warming and contributing to phenomena like rising sea levels.
The Science Behind Rising Sea Levels
Scientists identify two key drivers of rising sea levels: thermal expansion and melting ice. As global temperatures rise, ocean waters absorb heat and expand, contributing to sea level rise. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) estimates that thermal expansion has accounted for 40% of sea level rise since 1970. Additionally, the melting of glaciers in Greenland and Antarctica adds more water to the oceans.
Sea levels are currently rising at an average rate of 3.4 millimeters per year, nearly double the rate of the early 20th century. If greenhouse gas emissions continue at the current rate, experts predict that sea levels could rise by one to four feet by 2100, leading to catastrophic consequences for coastal regions.
Impacts on Coastal Communities
Coastal areas are on the frontline of this crisis. For communities like Anlo Beach, the consequences are immediate and severe. Mr. Samuel Borlu, Assembly Member for the community, shared that the situation has worsened dramatically since tidal waves first hit the area in 1995-1996. The problem escalated in 2017-2018, when waves destroyed over 500 homes, displacing many residents.
He explained that the loss of homes and livelihoods has been immense, with some community members forced to seek shelter with relatives, in classrooms, or in other towns. “Our community heavily relies on fishing,” he said, “but now, the erosion of the shoreline is making it almost impossible to cast our nets. The future of our people is in jeopardy.”
Mr. Michael Nyan, Shama District Coordinator of the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), noted that the tidal waves have consistently struck the area between June and August every year, leaving buildings—schools included—destroyed and many residents relocating.
Solutions to Address Rising Sea Levels
Dr. Jacob Dapilah, CEO of Salma AI-TRAINING and EcoSolutions, emphasized the urgent need for a combined approach to address the rising sea levels. Mitigation, adaptation, and resilience-building efforts are key to tackling the root causes of climate change.
Mitigation efforts must focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, transitioning to renewable energy, and improving energy efficiency. Governments must prioritize investments in modern technologies and adopt strategies like sea defense walls, flood barriers, and the restoration of natural habitats such as wetlands and mangroves to protect vulnerable coastal areas.
Dr. Dapilah also stressed the importance of building resilience by developing comprehensive emergency response plans, improving early warning systems, and fostering public awareness about the risks posed by climate change. As coastlines continue to shift and communities like Anlo Beach face overwhelming challenges, the need for swift and decisive action has never been clearer. The rise in sea levels is not just an environmental issue; it threatens the very survival of countless communities worldwide.
The Way Forward
It is crucial for government institutions at all levels to implement policies that reduce emissions and invest in the future of our planet. Efforts like the National Climate Change Adaptation Strategy will be instrumental in protecting vulnerable communities and ensuring a more sustainable future for generations to come.
Don’t forget to like, comment in the box below, and share on all our social media platforms. For more updates on international news, local news, business, elections, sports, and exciting discussions, tune in to Orange FM 1079
