Changing Ocean Asia Season 1 Episode 4 Sea Level Rise and Engineering Solutions
- January 20, 2022
- 28 min
Changing Ocean Asia is a show dedicated to exploring the environmental issues affecting the oceans throughout Asia and beyond. In season one episode four, entitled Sea Level Rise and Engineering Solutions, the focus is on the threat of rising sea levels and what can be done about it.
The episode starts with an explanation of the increasing severity of the sea level rise problem. As the planet's temperature continues to rise due to climate change, glaciers and ice sheets around the world are melting at an unprecedented rate. This melting ice leads to a rise in sea levels. Coastal areas are particularly vulnerable to this phenomenon, and millions of people living in these regions are at risk of being displaced.
To address this problem, many engineers and scientists are working on solutions to protect these vulnerable communities. The episode showcases some of the most promising engineering solutions that can be used to mitigate the effects of sea level rise.
One of the solutions highlighted in this episode is the use of natural solutions for coastal protection. For instance, the planting of mangroves can provide coastal areas with natural barriers against flooding and erosion. Additionally, strategic landscaping and the placement of wetlands can also be effective. These natural-based solutions have the added bonus of providing habitats for local wildlife, such as birds and fish.
Another solution presented in this episode involves the use of advanced technologies to create man-made barriers. The barriers range from archaic types like levees and dams to more advanced solutions like mobile gates and massive offshore breakwaters. With rising sea levels creating increasingly dangerous storms, these man-made barriers can help prevent flooding. Additionally, they can create offshore protection from storm surges, providing coastal communities with more time and less exposure.
The episode also explores the role of urban planning in mitigating the effects of sea level rise. The shows city planners, architects and other urban construction specialists are tasked with developing plans to protect populated areas from floods. This entails developing zoning laws and building codes that mandate elevated foundations and building materials that are resistant to saltwater. By utilizing smart and sustainable urban planning techniques, coastal cities can mitigate the negative impacts of severe weather events and rising sea levels.
The episode concludes with an optimistic message, underscoring the idea that humanity has the technology and knowledge to take effective action in addressing the sea level rise issue. Moreover, by being proactive in designing for sea level rise, we can also create jobs and support the local economy. The threat of sea level rise may be significant, but solutions exist within our reach, that can mitigate its damaging effects and safeguard the future of our coastal regions.
In conclusion, Changing Ocean Asia's season one episode 4, Sea Level Rise and Engineering Solutions, provides an in-depth examination of the environmental threat posed by rising sea levels. The episode highlights a range of solutions experts are exploring on a global scale, from natural barriers to sustainable urban planning and advanced engineering solutions. With this episode, the show reinforces the idea that humanity is capable of taking effective action against this challenge, while creating economic opportunities in the process. This episode is a must-watch for anyone who is passionate about keeping up with the latest developments in environmental protection.