A climate change campaign group has produced a map that shows how parts of Belfast are vulnerable to rising sea levels.
The Climate Central group, which describes itself as ‘an independent group of scientists and communicators who research and report the facts about our changing climate’, generated the interactive tool which allows people to see how changing water levels in coastal regions could affect communities.
The map has been welcomed by Belfast Green Party Councillor Brian Smyth who has described it as “code red warning for humanity”.
In its ‘Coastal Risk Screening Tool’, a sliding scale allows users to see what is called ‘Land Projected To Be Below Flood Level’ in any given year. When moved to 2050, the map shows in red how large parts of Belfast, particularly around Sydenham in East Belfast and the Sailortown area, will be, according to the group’s estimation, ‘below water level’.
Other areas that appear to be at risk include Donegall Pass, the Grosvenor Road and Boucher. St George’s Market, the City Airport, and the Titanic Quarter are also highlighted.
Climate Central says their ‘Sea Level Rise’ program ‘assesses and maps coastal threats globally’. It concentrates largely on the US but has data on coastlines across the world.
Reacting to the news, Cllr Smyth said: “I am not surprised by the data from Climate Central. And with the IPCC report last week it highlights the stark reality that the window to act on climate change is closing fast and that sea level rises are inevitable.
“Large parts of East and Lower North Belfast are at risk, particularly our working class communities who live in them. I remain concerned that the Department for Infrastructure are downplaying the risk. Add to this that Belfast already has a crumbling water infrastructure. We can’t stop this, but have to manage it as best we can.
“The time for populist politics is over, we need to begin honest conversations with the public and what it entails. Clare Bailey’s Climate Change Bill represents a first step to delivering a climate resilient city and Northern Ireland.
“Going into the Assembly elections next year, others will shout about the protocol or a border poll, yet climate needs to front and centre of the discussion. We are now fighting for our children’s futures.”
The Department for Infrastructure has said a £17 million Belfast Tidal Defence scheme will “mitigate” against the projected rise in sea levels.
Other areas of Northern Ireland appear to be at risk from the rise in sea levels including parts of Newtownards, as well as areas along the Ards Peninsula.
Swathes of farmland along the coast of Lough Foyle could also be affected.
Climate Central say their sea level research “strives to provide accurate, clear and granular information about sea level rise and coastal flood hazards both locally and globally, today and tomorrow”.
They add: “Anchored in rigorous primary research, our work distinguishes itself by its user-friendly maps and tools, extensive datasets, and high-quality visual presentation. The program dedicates its efforts to helping citizens, communities, businesses, organizations, and governments at every level to understand the consequences of different carbon pathways and to navigate the shifting waters of our warming world.”
