Title: The Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Erosion in the Southeastern United States
Introduction: This undergraduate research proposal seeks to explore the impact of climate change on coastal erosion in the southeastern United States. Coastal erosion is a growing concern, particularly in regions vulnerable to rising sea levels and increased storm intensity. This study will focus on understanding the relationship between climate change factors and the rate of coastal erosion in selected sites along the southeastern coastline.
Research Objectives:
- To analyze historical data on coastal erosion rates in the southeastern United States.
- To assess the correlation between rising sea levels, increased storm frequency, and coastal erosion.
- To explore the potential future impacts of climate change on coastal communities in the region.
Literature Review: The literature review will cover existing research on climate change and its impact on coastal erosion, with a focus on the southeastern United States. It will examine the mechanisms through which climate change accelerates coastal erosion, such as rising sea levels and increased storm surges. Gaps in the literature will be identified, particularly in terms of region-specific studies that link climate change to erosion patterns.
Methodology: A combination of fieldwork and data analysis will be used for this study. Historical data on coastal erosion rates will be collected from government and academic sources. Field visits to selected sites will involve measurements of erosion rates and observations of environmental conditions. Statistical analysis will be conducted to assess the relationship between climate change variables and erosion rates.
Expected Outcomes: The research is expected to provide insights into the current and future impact of climate change on coastal erosion in the southeastern United States. The findings will contribute to the understanding of how climate change affects coastal environments and inform strategies for mitigating its impacts on coastal communities.
Timeline: The research will be conducted over 12 months, with the first three months dedicated to literature review and data collection, followed by six months of fieldwork and data analysis, and three months of report writing.
Budget: The estimated budget for the research is $5,000, covering costs related to travel, data acquisition, fieldwork equipment, and publication fees.