North Sea study highlights risks of rapid sea level rise

A new study has found that sea levels rose significantly at the end of the last ice age, which may help scientists predict future rises. The research, published in Nature, analyzed peat layers at the bottom of the North Sea. It shows that during the last warming period, sea levels increased by up to 3.3 feet per century. Current predictions estimate sea level rise between 1 and 4 feet over the next 75 years. The study supports concerns that a rise of 3 feet by 2100 is possible. “This research helps clarify the complex relationship between ice sheets, climate, and sea level,” said Marc Hijma, a co-author of the study. The scientists collected peat samples from Doggerland, an area that was once a land bridge between Great Britain and Europe. This area was submerged as sea levels rose after the last ice age. By examining these samples, researchers were able to recreate how fast sea levels changed during that time. The study took about seven years to produce. It revealed that land movements also affected sea level measurements due to the melting of the Eurasian ice sheet. As the ice melted, the land began to rise, complicating the calculations. The findings are important for coastal communities that are preparing for climate change impacts. Sea-level rise could threaten low-lying islands and displace millions of people. It also poses risks to fresh water supplies and coastal ecosystems. Experts believe understanding past sea level changes helps make more accurate future projections. The early Holocene period, studied in this research, shows similar warming patterns and sea level rise rates expected in the coming decades. The study’s findings are essential for planners, especially in flood-prone areas like The Netherlands. A clear understanding of whether sea levels will rise at faster or slower rates is critical for making safety decisions. However, Hijma cautioned against misusing the data to downplay human impact on climate change.