Alexandria, Egypt, has seen a dramatic increase in building collapses, with over 280 structures failing in the last two decades. A study reveals that more than 7,000 buildings are at risk due to severe coastal erosion and rising sea levels, driven by climate change. The alarming situation highlights the need for sustainable urban planning and nature-based solutions to protect vulnerable coastal cities.
The coastal city of Alexandria, Egypt, is experiencing a significant increase in building collapses, with more than 280 structures having fallen in the last two decades. This alarming statistic, revealed by a recent study in the journal Earth Future, indicates a tenfold rise in collapse rates compared to earlier decades. Over 7,000 buildings in Alexandria’s most vulnerable coastal areas are now at risk, underscoring the city’s status as the most at-risk region in the Mediterranean Basin.
The main drivers behind these collapses are severe coastal erosion and rising sea levels, both consequences of climate change. Essam Heggy, a researcher from the University of Southern California, states that “Alexandria is a living example of the challenges facing other coastal cities in the region due to climate change and uncontrolled urban expansion.”
The researchers utilized a variety of data sources, including geographic, geological, and engineering studies, alongside satellite imagery to assess the conditions contributing to building instability. They found that coastal erosion exacerbates seawater intrusion into groundwater, negatively impacting soil stability and building foundations, thus increasing the risk of collapse.
The Gharb district of Alexandria has faced the most severe erosion, with an average shoreline retreat of 31 meters per year, leading to harmful salt infiltration into agricultural aquifers. Furthermore, over-extraction of groundwater and inadequate urban infrastructure have compounded the challenges, according to the researchers. Sara Fouad, a visiting researcher from the Technical University of Munich, highlights the need for comprehensive risk management strategies and better urban planning to address these issues.
While the study primarily focuses on Alexandria, its implications are relevant to other coastal cities around the Mediterranean, including Tunis and Tripoli, which have reported similar structural damage due to coastal erosion. The report also notes that Italy’s southern coastal buildings have seen a nine percent increase in collapse rates over the past twenty years, raising urgent safety concerns.
In light of these challenges, the study recommends implementing nature-based solutions, such as green infrastructure and “living beaches” designed to stabilize shorelines. Mattheios Santamouris from the University of New South Wales emphasizes the importance of collaboration with local authorities to enact these protective measures. Gohar advocates for adaptation and mitigation strategies, including sea walls and mangrove restoration, while considering the relocation of communities in vulnerable areas to mitigate future risks.
The rising rate of building collapses in Alexandria is a stark reminder of the profound impact of climate change on coastal cities. With more than 7,000 structures at risk, urgent action is needed to address the underlying causes of erosion and urban instability. By adopting sustainable urban planning practices and implementing nature-based defenses, as outlined in the research, cities can better protect themselves against future climate-related challenges. The findings not only have consequences for Alexandria but also for other coastal municipalities facing similar threats.
Original Source: www.scidev.net
