How Spain and California Adapt to Sea Level Rise

Abstract

In this article we summarize the main sea level rise impacts and measures that are already taking place in Spain and California. Both are Mediterranean Regions and share many climate change impacts. We will focus on the most relevant sea level rise adaptation measures already being adopted in both areas of study and show how the institutions that have the responsibility for coastal protection and climate adaptation are facing the sea level rise (SLR) issue. Both, Spain and California, have developed a Strategy on Sea Level Rise Adaptation and both are working hard to implement newer and more sustainable measures to adapt to near future climate change impacts from SLR. First we will describe the main vulnerabilities of each Region facing SLR and present the Institutions in charge of coastal management. Second, we will determine the similarities and differences from SLR impacts in both areas. Finally, we will analyze the adaptation strategies that the coastal institutions are implementing and discuss a mechanism that would help to include all these in a joint effort to support design and implementation of adaptation efforts.