Impact of Sea Level Rise on the Coastal Ecosystem

Abstract

Rising sea level is a phenomenon that is beginning to impact ecosystems and coastal features and the increasing annual rate of sea level rise will continue to impact on the coastal activities. The shoreline is very vulnerable and is sensitive to a variety of threats, especially erosion and flooding that can have a negative impact on human welfare, the environment and the ecosystem. The coastal area in Batu Pahat is very vulnerable to flooding due to high tides and critical coastal erosion. By using geospatial technology, the impact of sea level rise on coastal communities in Batu Pahat, Johor was identified. The shoreline changes along coastal communities of Batu Pahat can be determined using information from satellite remote sensing imagery. The findings show that sub reaches in Batu Pahat will be changed due to sea level rise by 87.50 ha (43.80%) compared to other sub reach between 2010 and 2040. The effects of sea level rise to the coastal areas near Batu Pahat found actively erosion and flooding events. The research makes recommendations to enhance the policies and related government guidelines for sustainable development in the region.