The continuous rise in sea levels across Europe is threatening to wipe out some of the continent’s most beloved beaches, according to a recent report by the European Environment Agency (EEA). Between 2006 and 2018, sea levels rose by 3.7 millimetres per year, more than twice the rate observed during the 20th century. If greenhouse gas emissions remain high, sea levels could rise up to 1.02 metres by 2100.
Dutch climate solutions company Reinders Corporation published a list of ten beaches facing the greatest erosion risk, based on projected shoreline retreat, Euronews reports.
- Sveti Stefan, Montenegro: This iconic islet-turned-hotel resort, connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway, may lose over 200 metres of shoreline by 2100.
- Porto Giunco, Sardinia, Italy: This “tropical beach” in Sardinia faces a projected erosion of 107 metres, threatening its natural dune system and recreational value.
- Praia de Benagil, Algarve, Portugal: Famous for its sea caves and already impacted by overtourism, this beach could lose up to 70 metres of coastline.
- Værøy Island, Lofoten, Norway: One of Norway’s most remote and scenic islands, Værøy may see a shoreline retreat of 58 metres, endangering hiking routes and historical sites.
- Keem Bay, Ireland: Known from The Banshees of Inisherin film, this secluded white-sand beach on Achill Island could lose 40 metres by the end of the century.
- Reynisfjara Beach, Iceland: A black-sand volcanic beach already known for deadly waves, Reynisfjara is expected to erode by over 35 metres.
- Plage des Marinières, French Riviera: This narrow beach near Nice may see a shoreline retreat of almost 35 metres, while local authorities have already posted tsunami awareness signs.
- Pasjača Beach, Dubrovnik, Croatia: Voted one of the world’s top 40 beaches, this narrow stretch risks complete disappearance, with 31 metres of erosion forecasted.
- Kynance Cove, Cornwall, UK: Famed for its serpentine rock formations, Kynance Cove could lose 30 metres, placing it among the UK’s most exposed coastal sites.
- Anse de l’Argent Faux, Antibes, France: Also known as “Billionaires’ Bay,” this beach could lose 28.38 metres of shoreline, despite being relatively preserved until now.
Plage des Marinières, French Riviera
Is sea level rise inevitable?
According to Professor Giorgio Budillon, Vice-Rector of Naples Parthenope University and expert in oceanography, the answer is “yes.” He explains that rising sea levels are partly driven by the climate system’s inertia, melting ice caps, and the thermal expansion of oceans.“Warnings about beaches at risk of disappearing are not fearmongering, but a sober glimpse of what could soon become reality without decisive action,” Budillon said.
What measures can reduce the risks?
Professor Budillon argues that cutting emissions alone is not enough. He supports the use of “soft solutions” such as beach nourishment, seagrass protection, and wetland restoration, which act as natural buffers against flooding. In some high-risk areas, however, relocating people and infrastructure may become unavoidable.
What should Europe do?
The professor calls for a unified and binding policy framework across EU member states to protect coastal areas. Urban planning should avoid new construction in vulnerable zones, establish coastal buffer areas, and include early warning systems, shoreline monitoring, and incentives for nature-based solutions. “Beginning to adapt today costs far less than rebuilding tomorrow what we will have lost,” he concludes.
Tags: beaches,Giorgio Budillon, European Environment Agency (EEA)