New data shows significant sea level rise post-ice age

New geological research has shed light on how rapidly global sea levels rose after the last ice age, about 11,700 years ago. This research is crucial for understanding how current global warming affects ice caps and sea levels. The findings were published in the journal Nature by a team of researchers from various Dutch universities and research institutions. Their work provides valuable data that can help scientists and policymakers as they address similar issues today. Scientists predict that rising greenhouse gas levels may cause sea levels to rise several meters by the year 2300. Some models suggest a rise of more than 1 meter per century. Compared to the past, the impact of this rise today could be much more severe due to population growth and existing infrastructure. The new study reveals that sea levels rose quickly after the last ice age because of the melting of large ice sheets in North America and Europe. Using unique data from the North Sea area, the researchers built accurate estimates of sea level rise during the early Holocene. This was possible by analyzing subsea layers where Doggerland, a land bridge between Great Britain and Europe, once existed. They found that sea level rise surged at rates exceeding 1 meter per century during two specific periods in the early Holocene. In contrast, the current rate of sea level rise in the Netherlands is only about 3 mm annually, which is expected to increase. Previously, estimates of total sea level rise from 11,000 to 3,000 years ago ranged between 32 and 55 meters. This new study provides a clearer figure of approximately 38 meters. Marc Hijma, a lead researcher on the project, emphasized the importance of this study for understanding sea level changes after the last ice age. He indicated that these insights are critical for preparing for the effects of current climate change.