The rise in sea levels, primarily driven by melting glaciers due to climate change, presents a significant threat to coastal and terrestrial biodiversity, as well as human communities. The World Bank predicts that cities such as Durban and Cape Town, along with numerous smaller coastal towns in South Africa, are at risk of devastation as sea levels continue to rise. With a coastline extending about 3,000km, the country faces profound social, economic, and ecological challenges.
Rising sea levels will lead to severe coastal flooding, increased erosion and infrastructure damage. The destruction of unique coastal ecosystems will disrupt biodiversity, affecting marine and terrestrial species that depend on these environments. Coastal forests, wetlands, and estuarine ecosystems, which act as natural buffers against storm surges and flooding, will be severely affected. Their loss will worsen climate-related risks by removing critical carbon sinks and disrupting species migration patterns.
Simultaneously, human populations will suffer as coastal dwellers are forced to migrate inland, becoming climate refugees. This displacement puts immense pressure on terrestrial biodiversity as land conversion increases to accommodate growing urban populations. The economic toll will be immense, as livelihoods reliant on the ocean, such as fishing, tourism and trade, are significantly hampered. Indigenous people and local communities, who have deep connections to coastal and terrestrial landscapes, will face heightened vulnerabilities, losing access to traditional resources and cultural heritage sites.
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research’s coastal flooding hazard assessment indicates a rise of between 0.35m and 1.0m globally by 2100. This rise, coupled with increased storm frequency and intensity, will worsen flooding in low-lying coastal areas. The Centre for Environmental Rights (CER) emphasises in its research on climate impacts in South Africa that the country is warming at twice the global rate, intensifying glacier melt and accelerating sea level rise.
The forced displacement of coastal communities will place immense pressure on urban centres, as large numbers of people seek alternative livelihoods and housing. According to research on South Africa’s climate impacts by the CER, the combined effects of coastal erosion, salinisation, and rising seas will push communities further inland. This mass migration could lead to overcrowded urban areas, strained infrastructure and increased socioeconomic challenges, particularly in cities like Cape Town and Durban.
Communities are at the heart of climate adaptation and conservation efforts. They can support ecosystem-based adaptation initiatives, participate in wetland restoration, reduce waste and advocate for stronger climate policies. Empowering communities with resources, education and financial support, ensures that climate action is inclusive, effective and sustainable for future generations.
Addressing the risks posed by rising sea levels requires urgent investment in climate adaptation and resilience. Policymakers must integrate climate adaptation into urban planning by strengthening coastal zone management laws, investing in climate-smart infrastructure and increasing funding for climate resilience. Accelerating the just energy transition by reducing fossil fuel dependency and promoting “environmentally responsible” renewable energy development is crucial.
Rising sea levels pose an existential threat to South Africa’s coastal and terrestrial biodiversity, as well as human populations
Furthermore, the private sector must adopt nature-positive business strategies, protect coastal and terrestrial ecosystems, and mobilise sustainable finance through green investments. These include green bonds, climate funds and nature-based solutions, which are essential to support infrastructure development, ecosystem restoration and community-based adaptation initiatives.
The Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) is working with policymakers and the private sector to mainstream conservation into national policies, business strategies and sustainable development planning. Through strategic partnerships, EWT advocates for stronger environmental regulations, promotes biodiversity-friendly investments and develops nature-based solutions that enhance climate resilience. The organisation facilitates conservation stewardship programmes that protect and restore critical habitats, improve land use practices, and support sustainable resource management.
By engaging local communities, EWT empowers them with the tools and knowledge needed to lead climate adaptation initiatives, protect ecosystems and build resilient livelihoods. Through targeted policy reform, innovative financing mechanisms and collaborative environmental stewardship, the trust is driving long-term solutions to mitigate the impacts of rising sea levels and ensure a sustainable future for people and nature.
Rising sea levels pose an existential threat to South Africa’s coastal and terrestrial biodiversity, as well as human populations. Without decisive action to curb emissions, implement adaptive strategies and mobilise sustainable finance, the economic and humanitarian crises will deepen. Glacier preservation must be recognised as a global priority, forming a key component of climate resilience strategies. By acting now, we can work towards a more sustainable and secure future for people, nature, and the planet.
• Kish Chetty is the Executive: Head of Sustainability of the Endangered Wildlife Trust
For opinion and analysis consideration, email Opinions@timeslive.co.za
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