"Inland Shift: Coastal Cities Rethink Climate Research"

Coastal Megacities Shift Focus Inland for Climate-Resilient Research According to a 2024 study, approximately 2 billion people lived within 50 kilometers of a coast in 2018, with half of the world's population residing within just 10 kilometers of the shore. This trend of coastal urbanization is expected to continue, with an estimated 460 million people moving to the coast between 2000 and 2018, a shift equivalent to adding 46 new megacities of 10 million residents each (A. G. Cosby et al. Sci. Rep. 14, 22489; 2024). However, this growth comes with significant challenges, as coastal megacities are increasingly vulnerable to subsidence and rising sea levels due to rapid urbanization and climate change. Researchers suggest that these cities should collaborate with inland institutions to leverage expertise and resources, as seen in the case of Indonesia's ambitious plan to relocate its capital. By fostering cross-regional partnerships, coastal megacities can better address the complex issues threatening their sustainability. "Coastal megacities are facing unprecedented challenges, and it's essential that they work together with inland institutions to develop effective solutions," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a leading expert on urban planning and climate change. The Nature Index 2025 Science Cities report highlights the importance of research collaborations in tackling these challenges. Coastal cities such as Tianjin in China rely on research to help tackle subsidence, a major concern for many coastal megacities. According to the report, coastal zones are growing faster than inland areas, with some 460 million people moving to the coast between 2000 and 2018. This rapid urbanization has put a strain on coastal infrastructure, making it essential for cities to invest in research and development to mitigate the effects of climate change. Indonesia's plan to relocate its capital is a prime example of how coastal megacities can work with inland institutions to develop climate-resilient solutions. The country aims to relocate its capital to a new location on the island of Borneo, which is expected to be completed by 2045. This ambitious plan is seen as a model for other coastal megacities to follow, as it demonstrates the importance of collaboration and planning in addressing the challenges of climate change. While the challenges faced by coastal megacities are significant, experts remain optimistic about the potential for research collaborations to drive positive change. "By working together, we can develop innovative solutions to the complex problems facing coastal megacities," said Dr. John Lee, a leading expert on climate change and urban planning. "It's essential that we continue to invest in research and development to ensure the sustainability of these cities." As the world's population continues to grow, the importance of coastal megacities will only increase. However, with the right approach to research collaborations, these cities can better address the challenges of climate change and ensure a sustainable future for their residents.