Protecting Coastal Cities from Climate Change: Global Imperative

Coastal countries and cities face significant risks from climate change, including rising sea levels that threaten economically and strategically crucial regions such as Singapore and tourist hotspots like the Maldives. However, with proactive measures and appropriate financial investments, these areas can safeguard their prosperity and commercial importance by drawing on successful global examples.

Singapore’s Climate Resilience Efforts

Water Information Institute
In Singapore, the establishment of the Water Information Institute focuses on using advanced technologies, including AI, to forecast the impact of climate change on the island.

As a major global commercial and financial center, particularly in the strategic East Asia region, this research is crucial for Singapore’s future.

$100 Billion Coastal Protection Commitment
Financially, Singapore committed S$100 billion (US$74 billion) in 2019 to coastal protection.

This includes constructing water barriers and planting sea trees, which can reduce wave intensity by up to 75 percent, alongside efforts to reduce harmful carbon emissions.

Indonesia’s New Capital and Climate Strategy

New Capital City
Indonesia plans to inaugurate a new capital in August, designed to be safer from climate risks, with a budget of $35 billion.

This new city will replace Jakarta, which will receive $40 billion over the next decade for natural disaster protection, especially against rising sea levels.

The Philippines’ Considerations for a New Capital

Climate Threats to Manila
Similarly, the Philippines is considering establishing a new capital to replace Manila, which faces significant climate change threats.

The Dire Situation for the Maldives

Erosion and Future Uninhabitability
For island nations like the Maldives, the situation is particularly dire. With 90 percent of the islands experiencing erosion and projections that 80 percent of the country will be uninhabitable by 2050, urgent protective measures are needed.

The Maldivian government has allocated 50 percent of its budget to combat climate change repercussions and has been warning of these risks for two decades.

Some residents are considering migration due to the anticipated dangers.

Global Responses to Coastal Threats

Measures in Other Countries
Countries like China, India, Vietnam, and the Netherlands have implemented significant measures to protect their coastlines.

In the Gulf region, where most cities and islands are located along the Arabian Gulf coast, comprehensive scientific, technical, financial, and environmental measures are essential to prevent economic and social repercussions.

Strategic Steps for the Gulf Region

Joint Research and Scientific Studies
Establishing joint Gulf research institutes and centers is a strategic step to understand the unique risks in the region.

Scientific studies can determine necessary strategies to avoid risks, and cooperation agreements can be signed with countries that possess advanced scientific technologies.

Consistent Budget Allocations
Financially, adopting necessary budget allocations based on studies is crucial to protect cities and islands from environmental risks in the Gulf.

Consistent funding is more sustainable and can significantly reduce the cost of delayed interventions, which may be expensive and place a heavy burden on state budgets in the short term.

Natural Barriers and Saltwater Farming
Building natural barriers around cities and islands is a viable strategy. Planting trees that thrive in Gulf waters, such as mangroves, is one approach.

Developing saltwater farming techniques can also help form natural barriers and improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide.

These measures will protect cities and islands, reduce financial burdens, and contribute to preserving infrastructure necessary for growth.