"Rapid Sinking: The Peril Facing China's Major Cities"
A study using nationwide satellite data has revealed that nearly half of China's major cities are experiencing "moderate to severe" levels of subsidence, with 16% of urban land sinking at a rate of more than 10 mm per year. This poses a significant risk of flooding, especially as sea levels continue to rise. The issue, driven by declining water tables and the weight of the built environment, is costing China billions in annual losses and could affect hundreds of millions of people within the next century. The problem is not unique to China, as other countries, including Indonesia, are also facing similar challenges. Mitigation and adaptation strategies, such as those implemented in Tokyo, will be crucial for addressing this widespread issue.
- Nearly half of China's major cities are sinking, researchers say Reuters
- Water extraction and weight of buildings see half of China's cities sink BBC.com
- Chinese cities are sinking rapidly NPR
- Satellite Data Reveals Sinking Risk for China’s Cities The New York Times
- 270 million people are living on sinking land in China’s major cities, new study finds CNN
Reading Insights
0
1
2 min
vs 4 min read
80%
617 → 121 words
Want the full story? Read the original article
Read on Reuters