Jersey sea level rise report published

The States of Jersey has today published a review looking at the impact of climate change on Jersey’s sea levels and coastline. The review, prepared by the National Oceanography Centre (NOC), was based on a study commissioned by the Department of the Environment and Department for Infrastructure.

Entitled Jersey Sea Level and Coastal Conditions Climate Review, the review assesses changes in Jersey’s sea level and coastal conditions as a result of climate change, with St Aubin’s Bay being used as the case study. It is the first time information about possible changes to Jersey’s sea level and coastline has been carried out using local information.

Professor Kevin Horsburgh from the NOC said “Rising sea levels as a result of climate change represent a global threat. 23% of the world’s population live within 100km of a coastline and within 100m of current sea level. The threat is particularly severe for low-lying island nations. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is unequivocal in its assessment of the gradual rise in mean sea level. Even with no change to Europe’s storm climate, these increased sea levels will result in more instances of extreme events overtopping sea defences. The NOC is delighted to have worked with the States of Jersey to provide the most up-to-date information for the island and to help deliver a long-term plan for mitigation and adaptation.”

The full review can be found on the States of Jersey website here.