Protecting Mediterranean’s Cultural Heritage from Rising Sea Levels and Erosion

by Rosa January 31, 2020

written by Rosa January 31, 2020

Rising Sea Levels Threaten Mediterranean’s Historical Treasures

Historical Sites at Risk

The Mediterranean coast is home to a wealth of significant cultural heritage sites, from the ancient Phoenician port city of Tyre to the picturesque streets of Croatia’s Old City of Dubrovnik. However, these landmarks are facing a serious threat from rising sea levels and coastal erosion.

A recent study has identified 47 UNESCO World Heritage sites along the Mediterranean coast that are at imminent risk of flooding or erosion. Within the next 100 years, 37 of these sites could be significantly damaged by a 100-year storm surge event, while 42 are already threatened by coastal erosion.

Impact of Sea Level Rise

Sea level rise is caused by the melting of glaciers and ice caps due to global warming. As the oceans expand and warm, they exert greater pressure on coastal areas, leading to flooding and erosion.

In the Mediterranean region, sea level rise is projected to increase by 50% by 2100, putting many historical sites at risk. The study found that even under conservative projections, over 90% of the sites examined are at risk, and conditions will continue to decline.

Erosion and Flooding

Coastal erosion occurs when waves and currents wear away at the shoreline, causing cliffs to crumble and beaches to disappear. In the Mediterranean, erosion is particularly severe in areas with soft, sandy coastlines.

Flooding is another major threat to coastal heritage sites. As sea levels rise, storm surges and high tides can inundate low-lying areas, damaging buildings and infrastructure. In Venice, up to 98% of the city and its saltwater lagoon could be submerged in a worst-case flooding scenario.

Vulnerability of Mediterranean Sites

The Mediterranean coast is particularly vulnerable to sea level rise and erosion because early human civilizations settled near the water. For centuries, this proximity to the sea has been a source of prosperity and cultural exchange. However, it now poses a significant threat to the region’s cultural heritage.

Adaptation Measures

Protecting Mediterranean historical sites from sea level rise and erosion requires innovative adaptation measures. Some cities, like Venice, have already installed submerged floodgates to combat flooding. However, such measures are costly and can only provide limited protection.

Long-term solutions will require a combination of approaches, including:

Restoring and protecting natural coastal defenses, such as wetlands and sand dunes
Relocating vulnerable structures and infrastructure away from at-risk areas
Implementing sustainable land-use planning to avoid further development in high-risk zones

Role of Climate Change Mitigation

Ultimately, the best way to protect Mediterranean historical sites from sea level rise is to mitigate climate change. By reducing greenhouse gas emissions and pursuing the goals of the Paris Agreement, we can limit future increases in flood and erosion risks.

Conclusion

The rising sea levels and coastal erosion pose a serious threat to the Mediterranean’s rich cultural heritage. Innovative adaptation measures and climate change mitigation efforts are essential to preserve these iconic landmarks for future generations.

Rosa

Rosa is a distinguished software engineer whose passion for science and technology was kindled in her early childhood. Growing up in a household where academic curiosity was nurtured, Rosa was deeply influenced by her father, a dedicated physics professor. After long days at the university, her father would come home and engage Rosa in a world of scientific exploration, guiding her through various experiments and fostering a profound love for the intricacies of the physical world. From a young age, Rosa was captivated by the endless possibilities that science presented. She spent countless hours conducting experiments and learning the fundamental principles of physics. This early exposure to scientific inquiry not only honed her analytical skills but also instilled in her a relentless curiosity and a passion for problem-solving. Rosa's academic journey led her to pursue a degree in Computer Science, where she excelled in her studies, driven by the same enthusiasm that had characterized her childhood experiments. She graduated with honors, earning a Bachelor's degree from a prestigious university. Her academic achievements were marked by numerous accolades and scholarships, reflecting her dedication and exceptional talent in the field. In her professional career, Rosa has made significant contributions to the tech industry. She has worked for several leading technology companies, where she has been instrumental in developing innovative software solutions that have had a substantial impact on various sectors. Her expertise lies in designing and implementing complex algorithms, optimizing system performance, and ensuring the reliability and scalability of software applications. Beyond her technical prowess, Rosa is a strong advocate for women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). She actively participates in mentorship programs, guiding young women who aspire to pursue careers in technology. Rosa believes in the power of education and the importance of providing equal opportunities for all, and she dedicates her time to speaking at conferences and workshops to inspire the next generation of female engineers. In her personal life, Rosa continues to embrace her scientific roots. She enjoys spending her free time experimenting with new technologies, reading scientific journals, and engaging in discussions about the future of technology. Rosa's journey from a curious child conducting experiments to a successful software engineer is a testament to the power of early exposure to science and the enduring influence of a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment.