Understanding the economic impacts of rising sea levels and implementing local adaptation strategies are essential for protecting coastal communities. The content also draws from a 2019 FRQ (Free Response Question) to provide relevant insights for APES students. 

Economic Impact of Rising Sea Levels

•  1 Dip in tourist revenue
• 2 Property value decline
• 3 Escalating property damage and repair costs of land or infrastructure
• 4 Insurance cost increase
• 5 Loss of agricultural land or aquaculture operations resulting in financial setbacks
• 6 Loss of wetland fish nurseries reducing commercial fisheries revenue
• 7 Boost in infrastructure/construction jobs for repairing damaged structures and properties
• 8 Rising costs of preventative measures (building sea walls, elevated buildings, etc.)

Adaptation Methods to Protect Coastal Communities

• 1 Elevate structures to prevent or reduce water damage.
• 2 Setback structures from the beach to prevent or reduce water damage.
• 3 Install pumps to mitigate flooding.
• 4 Construct sea walls to shield the area from wave action/storms/flooding/erosion.
• 5 Plant vegetation along the shoreline to reduce erosion.
• 6 Replenish sand to combat erosion and widen the beach.
• 7 Construct jetties/groins to act as a barrier from waves.