Source: Vulnerability to Climate Change of Australia’s Coastal Zone: Analysis of gaps in methods, data and system thresholds (Ed; M. Voice, N. Harvey and K. Walsh, 2006, Australian Government Publication) Australia’s Coastal Zones include: Over 80% of Australia’s Population and 7 major cities Globally significant ecosystems Top Tourist Destinations and World Heritage Sites
Potential Secondary or Indirect Impacts Infrastructure and Economic activity impacted Displacement of populations Direct Landscape and Ecosystem Impacts Increased Coastal Erosion (degradation) Increased Risk of Flooding and Storm Damage Climate Change Evidence Sea-Level Rise Altered Wave ClimateAltered Rainfall & Runoff Department of Climate Change: Coastal Impacts
Extreme Events e.g. Flooding Ecosystem Damage e.g. Coral Bleaching CSIRO Impacts of Climate Change Department of Climate Change: CSIRO Science of Climate Change:
Social: ◦ 20,000 people isolated or homeless Financial: ◦ Damages of $39 million Will societies be prepared for the future impacts of climate change? ABC News – Flood Evacuation ordered for Kempsey: