Sydney Opera House Among Landmarks Threatened by Climate Change, Report Finds

The Sydney Opera House's waterfront location means it is especially vulnerably, with the report noting that sea levels could rise as much as 56 centimeters by 2050

A new report by climate-focused data analytics company Climate X has found that a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Sydney Opera House, are under threat from rising sea levels brought about by climate change.

A report commissioned by the Australian government concurred, noting that Sydney is at particular risk. According to the report, Sydney could be as much as 1.8 degrees Celsius warmer by 2050, with that number doubling by 2090.

The result of these changes would be substantial sea level rises, which would threaten not only the Sydney Opera House but also all of Sydney's waterways and beaches. Sea levels could rise as much as 56 centimeters in the most pessimistic scenario offered by the report.

Other UNESCO World Heritage Sites at risk include Korea’s Sansa Buddhist Mountain Monasteries and the USA’s Olympic National Park.

"The potential impact of climate change on these sites is profound," said Lukky Ahmed, the CEO and co-founder of Climate X. "But it’s not just our past heritage that’s at risk – it’s our present, too."

"While the loss of these cultural treasures – many of which have endured for millennia – would of course be devastating, it’s also vital to remember the real societal and economic impact of climate change is happening in the here and now. Our findings serve as a stark warning for governments, preservationists, and the global community to prioritize the safeguarding of our planet – to preserve our ancient monuments and our current assets and infrastructure – and to protect life today and into the future."