Half of Earth's Beaches Could Vanish by 2100: Urgent Climate and Human Impact
Source: Nearly half of the beaches on Earth will disappear by the end of the century, study finds (2025-11-30)
A recent study highlights a sobering forecast: nearly 50% of the world's beaches may disappear by the end of this century due to climate change and human activity. The research, focusing on the São Paulo coast, reveals how rising sea levels, coastal development, and increased tourism threaten these vital ecosystems. Beaches are not just scenic spots; they are dynamic habitats supporting diverse marine life, including endangered species like sea turtles and coastal birds. The loss of beaches impacts local economies reliant on tourism, disrupts coastal protection, and diminishes natural carbon sinks. Recent data shows that global sea levels have risen approximately 10-20 centimeters since 1900, accelerating in recent decades due to melting ice caps and thermal expansion. Coastal erosion rates have doubled in some regions over the past 30 years, driven by intensified storms and human construction. The United Nations Environment Programme warns that if current trends continue, many iconic beaches in places like the Maldives, Caribbean, and Southeast Asia could be lost within the next 50 years. Innovative solutions are emerging, including the restoration of natural barriers like mangroves and dunes, and the implementation of sustainable coastal development policies. Governments worldwide are urged to adopt stricter regulations on shoreline construction, invest in climate resilience infrastructure, and promote eco-friendly tourism practices. Public awareness campaigns emphasize the importance of protecting these natural treasures, not only for their beauty but for their ecological and economic significance. As climate change accelerates, the urgency to act grows; preserving our beaches requires a global effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, enforce conservation laws, and support community-led coastal management initiatives. The future of Earth's beaches depends on immediate, coordinated action—our natural heritage and the well-being of countless species depend on it.