While cities get a bad rap for the strain that they place on the environment, it’s cities that are the solution to climate change. Historically, cities are hubs for trade, culture, innovation, and commerce. But when it comes to climate change, cities not only contribute the most to the negative effects of global warming, but they also deal with the day-to-day effects, including extreme heat, sunny day flooding, and more.

Approximately ten percent of the world’s population lives within 32 feet of sea level, and while a large percentage lives at higher elevations, most still live close to coastlines. As temperatures rise, scientists have noted an increase in coastal flooding, which presents a safety hazard to the population of coastal cities, businesses, and profit.

Studies have revealed that the rate of sea-level rise has increased substantially in the last 2,800 years. In fact, sea levels have risen almost 3 inches in the last twenty years.

Cities are about to get much wetter as global warming increases the intensity of storms, raises sea levels, and disrupts established climate expectations. Moreover, grey infrastructures in cities are straining to keep up with the growth of urban populations. The pattern of increased storms and frequent flooding requires cities to be proactive in finding a solution for water management and emergency systems or risk being overwhelmed by flooding and constant clean-up.