ABSTRACT
This chapter provides an overview of the science behind sea level rise. It begins the discussion by identifying the larger thematic issues that present themselves when entertaining policy options that require making choices in the face of uncertainty. Policy questions are influenced by the factors used to judge policy directions; the chapter categorizes factors into three main areas: economic, social, and ecological. The chapter focuses on policy options associated with sea level rise. The initial presumption between the environment, society, and the economy identified is used to ground policy making in relation to sea level rise adaptation. The chapter discusses coastal adaptation strategies, distinguishing between developed and undeveloped coastal areas. A rural coastal area of Maine may provide more policy options pertaining to sea level rise response. In a coastal setting, ocean storms can cause intermediate flooding of low-lying coastal areas. There are a variety of hybrid techniques that have been applied to protecting against the incoming sea.
