Underwater: Exploring the Map of the World in 2100

Courtesy of Hasan Jasim, an interesting set of maps that anticipates – and graphically shows – the impact of sea level rise in decades ahead:

Alright, not of the entire world, but a large part of it. In this alarming future scenario drawn up by Jay Simons, the sea level has risen drastically and is now 100 meters higher than it was in the year 2000. We think that number is a bit high, but the maps below are certainly interesting.

The concept of envisioning our world in the distant future often provokes a mix of curiosity and apprehension. Jay Simons’ projection offers a stark portrayal of what might unfold if sea levels continue to surge unabated. While the figure of 100 meters may seem extreme, it serves as a chilling reminder of the potential consequences of climate change.

As we delve into these maps, it’s crucial to acknowledge the speculative nature of such predictions. Yet, they provide a valuable lens through which we can contemplate the fragility of our planet’s ecosystems and the urgency of mitigating climate-related risks.

Simons’ depiction reveals a dramatically altered global landscape. Coastal regions, once bustling with life and commerce, are now submerged beneath the relentless advance of the ocean. Iconic cities, symbols of human achievement, now lie beneath the waves, mere remnants of a bygone era.

The implications of such profound environmental shifts extend far beyond mere geography. Entire ecosystems face existential threats, with species struggling to adapt or facing extinction. Human populations, displaced from their homes, grapple with the harsh reality of climate-induced migration.

But amidst the bleakness, there is room for reflection and action. Simons’ maps serve as a call to arms, urging us to confront the pressing challenges of climate change with unwavering resolve. They remind us that the choices we make today will reverberate for generations to come.

In the face of such adversity, innovation and collaboration emerge as our greatest assets. From developing sustainable technologies to fostering international cooperation, we have the tools at our disposal to chart a different course for our planet.

Ultimately, the map of the world in 2100 presented by Jay Simons is not a prophecy set in stone, but rather a wake-up call to heed the warnings of science and take decisive action. The future of our planet rests in our hands, and it is incumbent upon us to rise to the challenge, lest we consign future generations to a world defined by loss and regret.



This entry was posted on Thursday, February 15th, 2024 at 12:07 pm and is filed under Sea Level Rise.  You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.  Both comments and pings are currently closed. 

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BLACK SWANS GREEN SHOOTS
Black Swans / Green Shoots examines the collision between urbanization and resource scarcity in a world affected by climate change, identifying opportunities to build sustainable cities and resilient infrastructure through the use of revolutionary capital, increased awareness, innovative technologies, and smart design to make a difference in the face of global and local climate perils.

'Black Swans' are highly improbable events that come as a surprise, have major disruptive effects, and that are often rationalized after the fact as if they had been predictable to begin with. In our rapidly warming world, such events are occurring ever more frequently and include wildfires, floods, extreme heat, and drought.

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