The rising sea levels due to climate change pose significant threats to cities hosting climate summits, particularly those with coastal areas. For instance, Geneva, Paris, and London, the locations of upcoming climate events, could experience increased flooding and inundation, impacting their low-lying neighborhoods and critical infrastructure.
Worldwide, cities like Dubai and Lima are also at risk. Currently, the world's temperatures are trending towards a 2.9-degree increase, posing severe challenges for coastal cities and low-lying regions. The COP28's goal is to influence the long-term future of these cities, aiming to cap global warming at significantly under 2 degrees Celsius, with 1.5 degrees as the preference.
Geneva, although not as low-lying as some other coastal cities, may still face challenges due to its proximity to Lake Geneva, enhancing flood risks. Paris, with its iconic attractions and frequent flooding issues, could see high-tide flooding becoming more common and severe. Boston's low-lying neighborhoods, like Charlestown and East Boston, already face frequent inundation from severe storms. By 2050, high-tide flooding could become a routine event in this city. London's coastal areas, such as the Thames Estuary, may be inundated if sea levels rise by 6.2 feet (1.9 meters) by 2100.
Adaptation strategies and climate mitigation efforts are vital for all coastal cities, including those hosting major climate events, to minimize these risks. By taking proactive steps to reduce carbon emissions and implement sea-level rise adaptation plans, cities across the globe can work towards a more sustainable future.
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