One of the most compelling pieces of evidence of climate change is sea-level rise. According to Nerem et al., the global sea level rose about eight inches during the last century (2022). The primary reason for the matter is the melting of ice sheets, which adds water to the ocean. Additionally, according to the law of thermal expansion, the global temperature rise has also made water increase in volume. Even though sea-level rise may seem hard to detect, in some places, this phenomenon can be easily observed.
The Republic of Maldives is already starting to feel the effects of global sea-level rise now. The country is the flattest on Earth, with no ground above 9.9 feet above sea level (Union of Concerned Scientists). The environmental stress on the country can be felt through the scarcity of fresh water and the periodic flooding of the coastal area. If the situation continues to deteriorate at the present level, Maldives will lose 77% of its land by 2100 (Union of Concerned Scientists). As for short-term projections, the country is expected to face considerable economic challenges, as five airports and much housing are situated on the coastline. Therefore, the government of the Republic of Maldives, as well as international organizations, should find ways to mitigate the effects of climate change.
There are many ways to address the problem of climate change that can be effective in the long run. However, the situation is to be considered an emergency, and immediate action is required. According to Amadeo, burning fossil fuel contributes to 82% of the US greenhouse gas emissions. As major contributors to climate change are industries with high greenhouse gas emissions, such measures should be directed at these companies.
In my opinion, a tax on carbon emissions is the most effective way to tackle the problem. The advantages of the carbon tax are numerous and explicit. The tax will increase the cost of carbon fuels, which will make companies look for alternatives. Second, with the increased price of gasoline and electricity, people will become more energy-efficient. Third, according to Amadeo, the carbon tax can boost economic growth similar to the way it happened in Sweden 25 years ago. Even though additional methods will be required, an introduction of the carbon tax is a solid first step towards mitigating the effects of climate change.
Works Cited
Amadeo, Kimberly. “Carbon Tax, Its Purpose, and How It Works.”The Balance. 2019, Web.
Nerem, R. S., et al. “Climate-Change–Driven Accelerated Sea-Level Rise Detected in the Altimeter Era.” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, vol. 115, no. 9, 2018, pp. 2022-2025. Web.
Union of Concerned Scientists. “Republic of Maldives.”Climate Hot Map, Web.