Annapolis Royal, a picturesque town in Nova Scotia, Canada, is facing a grave threat from rising sea levels. Located on the banks of the Annapolis River, the town has a long history dating back to the 1600s, and its waterfront is a popular tourist destination. However, as sea levels continue to rise due to global warming, the town’s future is uncertain.
At his office just a few meters from the edge of the Annapolis Basin, Mayor Bill MacDonald told to locals, “I don’t want to frighten people, but we cannot be indifferent to what’s going on now.” “We must take actions, and this mayor and council are dedicated to do so. Residents of this region and town are also committed to it.”
Sea level rise is a phenomenon that occurs when global warming causes ice sheets and glaciers to melt, causing the oceans to expand. According to a report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the global sea level has risen by an average of 15 cm (6 inches) since the beginning of the 20th century. It is projected to rise by 26 to 82 cm (10 to 32 inches) by the end of the century.
For Annapolis Royal, this means that the town’s waterfront is at risk of flooding, erosion, and storm surges. In fact, the town has already experienced several instances of flooding, and experts predict that these events will become more frequent and severe in the coming years.
Moving Towards Action
To address the problem, Annapolis Royal has taken several measures to protect its waterfront and its residents. The town has developed a coastal adaptation plan that includes strategies for protecting infrastructure, homes, and businesses from flooding and erosion. The plan also includes measures to improve the town’s overall resilience to climate change, such as developing emergency response plans and educating the public about the risks of sea level rise.
One of the key measures taken by Annapolis Royal is the construction of a new seawall along the waterfront. The seawall is designed to protect the town from storm surges and prevent erosion along the shoreline. In addition, the town has implemented a series of green infrastructure projects, such as rain gardens and bioswales, which are designed to capture and filter stormwater runoff, reducing the risk of flooding and erosion.
Another important step taken by Annapolis Royal is the development of a floodplain mapping tool. The tool allows town officials and residents to visualize the potential impacts of sea level rise and flooding on the town’s infrastructure and properties. This information can be used to inform land use decisions and guide the town’s future development.
In addition to these measures, Annapolis Royal is also working with neighboring communities and regional authorities to develop a coordinated approach to coastal adaptation. This includes sharing data and best practices, coordinating emergency response efforts, and developing joint strategies for managing the risks of sea level rise.