Subsidence in China's Major Cities
Nearly half of China's major cities are experiencing moderate to severe subsidence, putting millions at risk of flooding as sea levels rise. The issue is driven by declining water tables and the weight of the built environment, costing China over $1 billion annually. Coastal land could sink below sea levels, endangering hundreds of millions of people. Adaptation measures like building dykes are necessary to address the problem.
Key Points
- 45% of China's urban land is sinking faster than 3 mm per year
- 16% of urban land is sinking at more than 10 mm per year
- Subsidence already costs China over $1 billion annually
- Coastal land in China could sink below sea levels within the next century
- Adaptation measures like building dykes are essential to address the problem
Pros
- Raises awareness about the serious issue of subsidence in urban areas
- Highlights the potential risks faced by millions of people due to sinking land
Cons
- Poses a significant threat to urban life and infrastructure
- Could lead to substantial economic losses and displacement of residents