The intersection of coastal flooding, carbon storage and climate change
Abstract
Coastal ecosystems are under increasing threat from the effects of climate change, with rising sea levels and more frequent, intense storms exacerbating coastal flooding. These environmental shifts not only pose a direct threat to human communities and infrastructure but also significantly impact the critical ecosystem services that coastal environments provide. One of the most important yet often overlooked services is carbon storage, where coastal ecosystems such as mangroves, salt marshes, and seagrasses play an essential role in mitigating climate change. This article explores the intersection of coastal flooding, carbon storage, and climate change, focusing on how rising sea levels and increased storm activity affect these ecosystems' ability to sequester carbon. Additionally, it examines the potential feedback loops created by the loss of carbon storage capacity and the intensification of flooding, along with potential solutions to mitigate these impacts. The article concludes with an emphasis on the importance of integrated coastal management strategies that prioritize both flood resilience and the preservation of carbon storage functions to combat climate change effectively.