Tulane Study Says Louisiana Must Plan for Coastal Retreat

New Orleans, Louisiana - A new study from Tulane University says Louisiana could become one of the most important places in the world for learning how to deal with climate change.

Since 2000, many coastal areas in Louisiana have lost population, especially after major hurricanes. Scientists say this may be an early sign of what other coastal regions could experience later this century.

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According to a study published in the journal Nature Sustainability, researchers say the state’s issues with rising seas, land loss, and flooding could help other places prepare for the future.

Scientists say the real question is not if the coastline will move inland, but how fast it will happen. Some researchers believe parts of South Louisiana could eventually be underwater if warming continues.

Even with these concerns, researchers say Louisiana has a chance to lead the world in planning for the future. That includes building stronger communities, moving infrastructure, and preparing new areas for growth.

Even with these risks, researchers say Louisiana still has time to plan ahead.

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They believe the state can build better systems for housing, roads, and local economies to adjust to future changes. That includes planning for people moving inland over time.

Tulane professor Jesse Keenan said Louisiana could become a leader in “transition planning,” which means preparing for long-term changes instead of reacting to disasters after they happen.

Read the full study by CLICKING HERE.