Sea Level Rise

Table of Contents

Introduction 1

I. Identification and Clarification of Information Needs 1

1. Purpose of the Research Request 1

2. Situation Analysis 2

3. Identifying and Separating Out Measurable Symptoms 3

4. The Unit of Analysis 3

5. The Relevant Variables 3

II. Redefining Research Problem as Research Question 4

1. Initial research question 4

2. Redefined research questions 4

III. Research Objectives and Information Value 4

1. Establish Research Objectives 4

2. Determine the Value of the Expected Information 4

IV. References 5

Introduction

Climate change is increasingly becoming a local issue as cities and counties consider its affects and implement mitigation and adaptation strategies in an attempt to limit its potential damage. Florida is particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. The state has over 1,200 miles of coastline, almost 4,500 square miles of estuaries and bays, more than 6,700 square miles of other coastal waters, and a low-lying topography. In addition, most of the state’s 18 million residents live within 60 miles of the Atlantic Ocean or Gulf of Mexico. Florida’s diverse and productive coastal and marine ecosystems are imperative to the state’s present and future. These ecosystems provide food and other products for its habitat as well as valuable and irreplaceable ecological functions. These systems also attract visitors from all over the world who wish to experience the beauty and recreational opportunities these locations offer. The state’s life-support system, economy, and quality of life depend on preserving and sustaining these resources over the long term[1].

Of prime interest to Florida is the climate changes impact on rising sea levels. Sea Level Rise (SLR) has been identified as a major global problem. SLR has two causes, the melting of mountain glaciers and polar ice sheets and thermal expansion of the oceans. At present, the mean global rate...