A recent report from the Climate Change Advisory Council (CCAC) underscores the pressing need for adaptation strategies to combat severe coastal erosion and flooding linked to climate change. With global surface temperatures reaching at least 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels from July 2023 to June 2024, the report warns of impending coastal tragedies.
The CCAC report reveals that without proactive measures, the cost of coastal flooding could soar to approximately €2 billion annually by 2050. It emphasizes that adapting to climate change will require substantial investment but ultimately save money and enhance community resilience.
The report calls for the implementation of sectoral adaptation plans, which are essential for improving infrastructure, water, soil, and air quality. However, it notes that these plans have not been adequately developed or funded, leading to increased risks for coastal communities.
As Ireland grapples with the reality of climate change, the urgency for effective coastal management and conservation efforts has never been clearer, marking a pivotal moment for marine science and environmental policy.