Sea level rise

The Danish Meteorological Institute estimates a general increase in sea levels of between 0.3m and more than 1m in this century as a consequence of climate change. This general increase applies to both the west coast of Jutland and the inner Danish waters.

Rising sea levels in combination with changed precipitation patterns entail a risk of more frequent and more powerful flooding, causing considerable inconvenience and economic losses.

Landowners themselves are responsible for protecting their property against flooding. There are no laws or regulations determining whether coastal defences should be established, and, if so, the level at which the individual landowner must protect himself.

Local governments are only responsible for coastal protection around the land they own. Furthermore, local governments are responsible for planning how coastal areas are to be used.

The Danish Coastal Authority is responsible for coastal protection of the west coast of Jutland.