[enviro-vlc] Mapping the effects of rising sea levels in the pipeline

[Vern Weitzel]

http://english.vietnamnet.vn/tech/2008/10/811159/

Mapping the effects of rising sea levels in the pipeline
09:20' 31/10/2008 (GMT+7)

VietNamNet Bridge – A map depicting areas of the country susceptible to flooding 
in the event of a rise in sea levels is to be drawn up early in 2009 as part of 
a Danish-funded project being carried out by the Institute of Meteorology, 
Hydrology and Environment (IMHE).

The mapping of sea level rise scenarios as a result of climate change throughout 
the country, particularly around the Red River and Mekong Delta areas.

IMHE Director Dr. Tran Thuc, speaking at a seminar on Oct. 30, said that the 
mapping of sea level rise scenarios as a result of climate change throughout the 
country, particularly around the Red River and Mekong Delta areas, is expected 
to provide an important foundation for sectors and localities to formulate 
suitable strategies in response to the issue.

The project, estimated to cost 830,000 USD, will assess the extent of the 
environmental impact resulting from a rise in sea levels, as well as the effects 
upon socio-economic development and the vulnerability of coastal regions, and 
suggest effective measures to cope with such a situation.

According to the results of a study carried out by the World Bank, Vietnam 
topped a list of 10 countries and territories around the world that would be 
worst affected by a rise in sea levels.

In its report, the World Bank said just a 1m rise in sea levels would negatively 
affect the livelihoods of around 10.8 percent of Vietnam’s population, mainly in 
the Red River and Mekong Delta regions.

If sea levels rose by 5m, Vietnam would lose up to 16 percent of its landmass 
area, which accounts for 35 percent of the country’s population, and around 35 
percent of the country’s total gross domestic product (GDP).

(Source: VNA)