Fears over global warming threat to coastline

UP to half of Ireland’s 5,800km of coastline is in danger of disappearing beneath the sea because of global warming, a leading academic has warned.

Coastal erosion could soon impact on tourism, householders and businesses as well as having a severe environmental impact.

The situation is serious enough that policy makers should consider ceasing all development in low-lying costal areas and flood plains, said professor Robert Devoy of UCC’s Geography Department.