Abstract
The United States is a coastal nation. More than two-thirds of its population live within coastal states. Many of these developed coastal areas are low-lying, subject to flooding and similar hazards related to sea level rise. Historical policies have incentivized coastal development and redevelopment. And today, as a direct result of sea level rise, ecologically important coastal attributes are being eroded. This paper examines historical and current policies associated with coastal development in the United States. Using a policy evolution analytical framework, specific policies are identified that have incentivized coastal development while simultaneously discounting existing and emerging coastal hazard risks. It then explores the kinds of policy evolutions required to better internalize emerging climate change risks to coastal areas while also supporting the ecological integrity of coastlines. Findings indicate key existing policies supporting coastal development aid in discounting the increasing risks to coastal areas, while also incentivizing the flow of capital for development purposes. The recommendations from this analysis can be generally applied to coastal areas under the dual considerations of development and coastal ecosystem integrity in an era of climate change.