Kristin Nicholson
September 28, 2012
Blog 4
Research by the University of Southampton showed that
the sea surface temperature in coastal regions in Venice is rising as much as
ten times faster than the global average. Researchers believe this temperature elevation
is a consequence of ‘urban heat island effect'. The urban heat island effect is
the process of regions experiencing rapid industrial and urban expansion. This
rapid growth produces heat, which makes the area warmer than its surroundings. Jobs
as well as the Venetian economy rely on the fishing industry. In turn, the
fishing industry is dependent on the temperature of the coastal seawater in the
Venice. Researchers report that a rise in sea surface temperatures in the
coastal zone reduces oxygen levels and dislocates fish and other aquatic life.
Yet another instance of urbanization poses a threat
to the environment. Urban growth in coastal areas contributes to the global
warming problem we are facing. Temperature levels can possibly cause the aquatic
life to no longer thrive. To protect the coastal habitats measures will need to
be taken to lessen the temperature rise.
More research should be conducted before and during the urbanization of
these seaside cities. A limit of infrastructure and/or population should be
placed on cities undergoing urbanization. Using infrastructures that are earth
friendly is another way to combat the environmental damages of urbanization. Not
only will this temperature rise affect marine life, but it will also deter
economic growth. This is mostly true because seaside cities usually thrive on the
fish and other life that inhabit it.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/09/120928125306.htm
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