The White Cliffs of Dover are eroding ten times faster than they have been over the past few thousand years, new research reveals.
The iconic White Cliffs of Dover on the southern coast of the UK are one of the country’s most treasured natural landmarks.
However, they are now eroding faster than ever before, according to the research, this is due to a combination of factors including climate change and human interference.
Regular intense and frequent storms have been wearing away at the cliff-face and beach erosion has led to damage at the base of the cliffs.
Carl Borg, founder of Outforia, who conducted the research said: ‘No matter where you live, the chances are you aren’t too far from a ‘nature spot’ you love – whether this is a local park or a national landmark. To think that this could be taken away from you in your life is truly saddening.
‘It is heartbreaking that many of us simply sit back and watch these negative changes happening in our world, and whilst lockdown measures over the last year have mitigated some of the impacts, the changes are much more long-term. The big question is what move we make as a world to turn this around and regain our beauty spots again.
‘Hopefully, these images and our efforts on this project will provide a reality check to many; whether this be enjoying outdoor beauty more often or making more serious changes to your lifestyle.’
In related news, coastal communities could experience sea-level rise up to four times that of the global average, according to a new study published in the journal Nature Climate Change.
The study, which was led by researchers at the University of East Anglia found that coastal inhabitants are living with an average sea level rise of 7.8 mm – 9.9 mm per year over the past twenty years, compared with a global average rise of 2.6mm a year.
Photo Credit – Supplied