Alexandria Threatened by Climate Change

Alexandria, Egypt, a city with a history dating back to 331 BC, faces serious threats from climate change. Rising sea levels and coastal erosion are endangering the city's foundations.

As the Mediterranean Sea warms, saltwater penetrates the sandy substrate, eroding building foundations. According to a study, Alexandria's coastline has receded by an average of 3.5 meters per year over the past 20 years.

The Egyptian government has taken measures, such as constructing breakwaters and replenishing beaches with sand. Buildings deemed dangerous are also being demolished. Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly announced the demolition of 7,500 buildings and the construction of 55,000 new residential units.

Alexandria's coastal zone is considered the most vulnerable in the Mediterranean, with approximately 7,000 buildings potentially unsafe. The city's population has almost doubled in the last 25 years, reaching 5.8 million.