Global mean sea level change 1993-2023

Global sea levels have been steadily rising over the past three decades, with an average increase of 3.1 millimeters per year. In January 2023, the mean sea level was 98 millimeters higher compared to the same month in 1993.

Contributing factors to sea level rise

The upward trend of the global sea level is primarily attributed to the effects of climate change, particularly the rise in global ocean temperatures and the subsequent expansion of water, as well as the increased volume resulting from the melting of ice caps and glaciers. Sea ice extent across the globe has been consistently reporting historic lows, with 2023 being the worst year since records started.

The rise will continue, despite the scenario

Regardless of the greenhouse gas emissions scenario chosen, the global sea level is projected to continue increasing at least through the end of the century. Even under a very low emissions scenario, it is estimated that the overall rise in sea level worldwide will be approximately 82 millimeters between 2040 and 2060, or 4.1 millimeters per year. For a high emissions scenario, the rise could be as high as 6.4 millimeters per year, twice the rate of the past three decades.