Out of 30 coastal states and U.S. territories, 22 are performing at adequate to poor levels according to the Surfrider Foundation’s 2017 State of the Beach Report Card.
The report suggests that the majority of coastal states need to make improvements and need support at the federal level for the Coastal Zone Management Act and more federal agency funding to protect coastlines. Coastal erosion causes about $500 million in coastal property loss annually in the U.S., including damage to structures and loss of land.
The federal government spends an average of $150 million annually on beach replenishment and other shoreline erosion control measures. With sea levels projected to increase up to six feet by 2100, the problem is likely to worsen.
Eight higher-scoring states had strong policies regarding coastal building setbacks, prohibitions against coastal armoring and rebuilding in coastal hazard areas, and incorporation of projected sea level rise along with adaptation measures into planning documents. Most of the states that experience extreme weather events, however, lack solid coastal preservation and sea level rise policies.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jun 12, 2018
Congestion pricing for cars is effective in reducing traffic, but a difficult sell
After three years, traffic congestion declined by 30% in London.
Codes and Standards | Jun 11, 2018
First RFP requiring modular construction on New York City housing project issued
Part of Housing 2.0 modular construction initiative.
Codes and Standards | Jun 6, 2018
Buffalo, N.Y., contractor exec pleads guilty to fraud for bid rigging on $750 million contract
LPCiminelli stops functioning as GC in fallout from the case.
Codes and Standards | Jun 6, 2018
LEED should be updated to combat climate change
Hasn’t kept pace with urgency of problem, says clean energy investor.
Codes and Standards | Jun 5, 2018
Sports stadiums and arenas showcase sustainability features
Green venues save owners money, gain positive publicity.
Codes and Standards | Jun 4, 2018
L.A. must transition to cleaner energy, boost transit to reach sustainability goals
City aims to reduce GHGs 60% by 2035 and 80% by 2050.
Codes and Standards | Jun 4, 2018
Washington D.C.’s flattened skyline can be a virtue
Zoning ordinance that ties building heights to width of streets dictates form.
Codes and Standards | May 30, 2018
Silicon Valley cities considering taxes aimed at large employers
The aim is to offset the impact on housing costs and homelessness by tech companies.
Codes and Standards | May 30, 2018
OSHA proposes new crane operator safety rule
Would provide long-term clarity on certification requirements.
Codes and Standards | May 29, 2018
Government support helping to drive demand for green building materials
Market projects to grow 12.5% annually between 2013 and 2019.
