Revista Sextante

Climate Change Adaptation Strategies for Sustainable Maritime Infrastructure and Coastal Security

Amara Nkemelu-Lindqvist

Nordic Centre for Coastal Resilience and Maritime Futures, Gothenburg, Sweden

Keywords: climate adaptation, maritime infrastructure, coastal security, sea-level rise, port resilience

Abstract

Ports, harbours, shipping channels, naval bases and coastal defences form the physical backbone of global trade and national security, yet they sit at the exact interface where climate change is felt most directly. Sea-level rise, intensifying storms, storm surge, extreme heat, changing wave climates and coastal erosion are increasing the frequency and severity of disruption to maritime systems. This article reviews the scientific evidence on climate hazards affecting maritime infrastructure and examines the main adaptation strategies available to planners, port authorities, navies and coastal governments. It considers risk assessment, structural engineering, nature-based and hybrid defences, adaptive planning under deep uncertainty, protection of critical and security infrastructure, financing and governance, and community capacity. The analysis shows that no single measure is sufficient. The most robust outcomes arise from combining engineering, ecosystem-based approaches and flexible decision pathways that can be adjusted as sea-level and storm projections evolve. Integrating adaptation into routine asset management and security planning, rather than treating it as a separate exercise, is essential for sustaining maritime services and protecting coastal communities throughout the century.