Rising sea levels threaten 1.5 million Australians by 2050, climate report warns

A new climate report has raised alarm over the impact of rising sea levels, warning that 1.5 million Australians living in coastal areas will be at risk by 2050.

The National Climate Risk Assessment, released ahead of the government's 2035 emissions reduction targets, highlights the severe and escalating threats posed by climate change, including more frequent floods, cyclones, heatwaves, droughts, and bushfires, Caliber.Az reports via BBC. 

"Australians are already living with the consequences of climate change today," Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen said. "But it's clear every degree of warming we prevent now will help future generations avoid the worst impacts in years to come."

The report, which examines the risks of global warming scenarios above 1.5°C, 2°C, and 3°C, reveals that Australia has already surpassed 1.5°C of warming. At 3°C, it warns that heat-related deaths in Sydney could rise by more than 400% and nearly triple in Melbourne.

The 72-page report found that climate hazards will affect every Australian community. It warned of compounded risks such as more heatwave-related deaths, poor water quality from severe flooding and bushfires, and a projected A$611 billion ($406bn; £300bn) drop in property values.

By 2050, coastal communities in "high and very high risk areas" are expected to increase, placing over 1.5 million people in danger, especially in northern Australia, remote communities, and the outer suburbs of major cities.

"This will put pressure on health, critical infrastructure, natural species and ecosystems, and primary industries," the report warned, adding that emergency responders will face additional challenges.

The report also highlights the increasing risks to Australia's coral reefs, such as the Great Barrier Reef and Ningaloo Reef, which are already suffering from record bleaching events. Warmer oceans will further threaten biodiversity and lead to additional bleaching.

Bowen stressed the urgency of action, saying, "One thing that is very clear from this climate assessment is that our whole country has a lot at stake. The cost of inaction will always outweigh the cost of action."

In response to the findings, the government released a national adaptation plan outlining how federal, state, and local governments will collaborate to address climate change. Bowen also confirmed that an ambitious 2035 emissions target will be set, based on advice from the independent Climate Change Authority.

Australia has committed to reducing emissions by 43% by 2030, but continues to face criticism for its ongoing reliance on fossil fuels. Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie called the findings of the report "terrifying" and urged the government to commit to stronger emissions cuts.

"Australia cannot afford a timid 2035 target when our own government data shows the catastrophic costs of inaction," McKenzie said. "The longer we delay the deep and sustained cuts to climate pollution we need, the harder it becomes to protect communities from escalating heatwaves, floods and bushfire weather."

By Sabina Mammadli