Sea levels are rising due to global warming, which is caused by human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation. The two major factors that contribute to sea level rise are thermal expansion and melting of land-based ice. Here are the main causes of sea level rise:

• Thermal expansion: When water heats up, it expands. About half of the sea-level rise over the past 25 years is due to warmer oceans simply occupying more space.

• Melting glaciers and ice sheets: As the Earths temperature rises, glaciers and ice sheets melt and add water to the ocean.

• Sinking land: Some coastal areas are sinking due to natural processes, groundwater withdrawal, and oil and gas extraction, which can cause sea levels to appear to rise faster.

• Changes in ocean currents: Changes in ocean currents can cause sea levels to rise in some areas and fall in others.

• Human activities: Human activities such as coastal development, deforestation, and groundwater depletion can also contribute to sea level rise.

Sea level rise can have serious consequences for coastal communities, including flooding, erosion, and damage to infrastructure and property. It can also contaminate freshwater aquifers and harm coastal ecosystems.