SO WHAT IF SEA LEVELS RISE A COUPLE OF INCHES?

Dr FINKEL SAYS: A few inches of sea level rise would not be a problem if it occurred over a long time and that were the only change. However, on current emissions trajectories, the global sea level is expected to be up to 25cm higher by 2050 than at the start of this century, and about 70cm higher by 2100. This sea level rise combined with increasingly severe cyclones will lead to destructive storm surges. It could be argued we can relocate or protect low-lying roads, power plants, sewage treatment plants and buildings, but this will take substantial money and effort.