**Document Title:**  
**Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Ecosystems**

**Author:**  
Emily Davis  
Department of Environmental Science  
Greenfield University

**Abstract**  
This report assesses the effects of climate change on coastal ecosystems, focusing on sea-level rise, ocean acidification, and habitat loss. It provides a comprehensive overview of current trends, future projections, and proposed mitigation efforts.

**1. Introduction**

Coastal ecosystems are among the most vulnerable environments to climate change, with rising sea levels and increasing temperatures posing significant threats to biodiversity and human settlements. This report highlights the primary impacts of climate change on these ecosystems and discusses strategies for adaptation and mitigation.

**2. Key Impacts**

The primary effects of climate change on coastal ecosystems include:

- **Sea-Level Rise**: Rising sea levels threaten coastal habitats, leading to increased erosion, flooding, and loss of land.
- **Ocean Acidification**: Increased CO2 levels are lowering ocean pH, affecting marine life, especially organisms with calcium carbonate shells.
- **Habitat Loss**: Changes in temperature and sea level are altering habitats, endangering species such as mangroves and coral reefs.

**3. Mitigation Strategies**

Effective mitigation strategies to protect coastal ecosystems include:

- **Wetland Restoration**: Restoring coastal wetlands can help absorb excess water and reduce flooding risks.
- **Sustainable Fisheries Management**: Implementing sustainable fishing practices can help maintain biodiversity and protect marine species.
- **Carbon Sequestration Projects**: Investing in blue carbon projects that focus on capturing and storing carbon in coastal ecosystems can reduce CO2 levels.

**4. Conclusion**

The long-term sustainability of coastal ecosystems depends on immediate action to mitigate the impacts of climate change. While adaptation measures such as wetland restoration and sustainable fisheries management show promise, global efforts to reduce carbon emissions are critical for long-term success.

**5. References**

- White, M. (2023). "The Role of Coastal Ecosystems in Climate Mitigation". Marine Conservation Journal.
- Taylor, R. (2022). "Impacts of Sea-Level Rise on Coastal Communities". Global Environmental Studies.

