Protection methods against sea-level rise caused by climatic Change: Case study of the Nile Delta coastal zones

Abstract

The global mean surface temperature is projected to increase about 1–3.5°C by the year 2100 caused by a sea-level rise (SLR) of about 15–95 cm. Low gradient coastal landforms most susceptible to inundation include deltas, estuaries, beaches and barrier islands, and coral reefs. Without serious adaptation measures, millions of peoples will be displaced from their homes. Moreover, the loss of productive land, they will have serious implications on job opportunities, food availability, and population movement. In this paper, the current status of many countries in the world affected by rising sea levels is presented. Also, the methods and strategies that can be used to cope with the expected sea level rising are discussed briefly such as nourishment, barriers, coastal armoring, managed retreat, application of the integrated coastal zone management (ICZM), use of floatable developments, etc. In addition, the different types of coastal dikes as widely used methods to protect the coasts from SLR are summarized. Finally, the current situation in Egypt and their vulnerability to SLR is presented.