Question

How do small changes such as moving the position of barrier islands produce such dramatic results?

Answer 1

Barrier islands make up approximately 15% of the world’s total shoreline and majority of it is in the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the United States. These islands created by tidal inlets and channels provide protection from erosion and also to mangroves. With gradual rise in sea level, the barrier islands shift landward. Shifting of these islands can cause dramatic changes such as beach erosion, dune displacement, accelerated loss in wetlands and coastal flooding. Barrier island in itself sustains a unique community. In terms of human settlements, shift of barrier islands also has an impact on sand mining, gas and oil exploitation. It also affects the fresh water supplies due to intrusion of sea water.