Sea level rises spark concerns
(China Daily)
Updated: 2004-03-01 23:33

A rising sea level along China's eastern coastal Zhejiang Province is predicted to accelerate, likely to pose a threat to the public in the future.

The average rate of sea level rise there has been approximately 2.75 millimetres per year during the past 41 years, and will rise at a much faster rate in the future.

The research released recently was conducted by the Second Institute of State Oceanic Administration (SOA) and the Bureau of Hydraulics of East China's Zhejiang Province, which monitors and broadcasts the rises and falls of sea levels there.

The sea level close to Zhejiang Province is expected to rise by 11 or 12 centimetres by 2030, according to the research report.

"Although it is an observed fact that the relative sea level is rising in the coastal region, the change of sea level in Zhejiang Province is not rising in a linear way," said Han Zengcui, an expert who tested and appraised the research topic.

It shows that the average acceleration of rise in islands of Changtu, Dinghai and Kanmen is 0.17, 0.26 and 0.16 millimetres per year respectively from 1960 to 2000.

Since there are relatively stable and comparatively faster spells of sea level rises, it is difficult to give accurate forecasts, Han said.

"A rise of a few millimetres per year by the sea as a result of global warming caused by increased greenhouse-gas emissions is not an immediate threat," said Han.

So far, no special warning has been sent to residents along the coasts, China Daily has learned.

However, Han said, "if the present trends continue, problems will be exacerbated after 50 or 100 years."

A rising sea level will result in the inundation of low-lying areas, erosion of beaches and bluffs, salt intrusion into surface waters, higher water tables, and increased flooding and storm damage, Han added.

More preventative measures would be necessary for consideration in the future, Han said, suggesting a comprehensive plan for coastal projects, especially for sea walls and docks.

The sea level report for 2003, released by the SOA last year, shows that the average rate of sea level rises in China is 2.5 millimetres, which is a little faster than the global sea level rising rate.

It predicted that the rise trend would continue in the following three to ten years, as well.

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