The Gulf of Triestenestled between the coasts of Italy and Slovenia, has always represented a crucial crossroads for commercial and cultural exchanges in the Mediterranean. However, today it faces an unprecedented challenge: the rise of sea levels. Stefano Furlani, teacher of physical geography and geomorphology of the University of Trieste, underlined that the signs of this change have been evident since 1880, thanks to data collected by one of the oldest tide gauges in the Mediterranean. However, it is only in the last twenty years that the increase has become truly significant, with satellites confirming a constant increase.
Looking to the future with concern
The projections for the Gulf of Trieste leave no room for doubts or optimistic interpretations. According to Furlani, during this century, sea level could rise on average by 30 to 80 centimetres, with a particularly heavy impact on the low coasts of the northern Adriatic and on Trieste. The half-meter rise expected for the city might seem modest, but it will have devastating consequences. The increase in the frequency of high tide events will transform already vulnerable areas into territories at permanent risk.
The necessary adaptation
In the face of this imminent threat, it is essential that the community takes charge of the situation. Furlani launched a clear appeal: It is essential to act now to find preventative solutions, especially for the most affected areas such as the Porto Vecchio. Discussing and implementing adaptation measures before the situation becomes critical is fundamental to avoid irreparable damage.
Man and the seabed
But rising seas are not the only problem threatening the Gulf of Trieste. Human activity has heavily influenced the morphology of the seabed. The study conducted by Dr. Mariangela Pagano of the Ogs highlighted how dredging and illegal dumping of sludge have profoundly altered the structure of the seabed, especially in the Muggia baythe heart of port and industrial activities.
Maps of the area clearly show the impact of human activities on the marine environment. Anthropic reliefs up to ten meters high and dredged seabeds highlight the extent of the changes. Particularly significant is the intervention in the access channel to the port of Zaule, which has undergone profound alterations in its original structure.
Threatened biodiversity: a fragile balance
But it is not only the structure of the seabed that is compromised by human action. The marine biologist Marina Cabrini highlighted how the introduction of alien species and global warming are threatening local biodiversity. The Gulf of Trieste is now invaded by invasive species such as blue crab and sea walnutwhich threaten native ecosystems and put the sustainability of fishing activities at risk.
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