3.4.1

Consequences of Coastal Recession

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Consequences of Coastal Recession

The increased rate of coastal recession is creating greater risks for coastal communities.

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Economic and social losses

  • Coastal recession and flooding create serious economic and social losses.
  • The damage to houses and businesses mean that people are forced to relocate whilst repairs are done and financial support is needed to support this.
  • Many people in less developed countries have limited financial assets and are reliant on international aid.
  • In more developed countries like the UK, many people can't get enough insurance to cover potential damages, and many houses lose value as the rate of coastal recession increases.
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South-west UK railway line

  • In 2014, heavy storms damaged the railway line that provided a key connection for commuters travelling between Devon, Cornwall and other parts of the UK.
  • It is estimated that the two-month closure of the railway line for repairs cost the UK economy £1.2 billion through disruption to the tourist and fishing industries in the local area.
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Australian coastal flooding

  • Rising sea levels in Australia are increasing the risk of coastal flooding.
  • A$216 billion worth of key infrastructure, such as road and rail networks, residential housing, commercial properties and emergency service stations, are at risk in the future if sea levels continue to rise.
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The Maldives

  • The Maldives, made up of over 1,000 islands, is one of the lowest lying countries in the world. The Maldives is at serious risk of being completely submerged because of coastal flooding.
  • The islands rely on tourism as a key contributor to the local economy, but increased coastal flooding events threaten the physical features that cause many people to flock to the islands in search of paradise.
  • Coastal flooding also threatens housing and freshwater sources, which has forced many locals to migrate away from the annual flooding.

Jump to other topics

1Tectonic Processes & Hazards

2Option 2A: Glaciated Landscapes & Change

3Option 2B: Coastal Landscapes & Change

4Globalisation

5Option 4A: Regenerating Places

6Option 4B: Diverse Places

7The Water Cycle & Water Insecurity (A2 only)

8The Carbon Cycle & Energy Security (A2 only)

9Superpowers (A2 only)

10Option 8A: Health & Human Rights (A2 only)

11Option 8B: Migration & Identity (A2 only)

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