China Faces Severe Urban Subsidence, Putting Millions at Risk

Recent studies reveal that nearly half of China's major cities are sinking due to factors like groundwater extraction and urban development, with significant impacts expected on infrastructure and coastal areas.

• Nearly half of China's major cities, including Beijing and Shanghai, are experiencing rapid subsidence, affecting millions of residents.
• Research indicates that 45% of urban areas are sinking more than 3 millimeters per year, with some areas sinking as much as 45 millimeters annually.
• Groundwater withdrawal and the weight of urban infrastructure are primary drivers of the subsidence, posing serious threats to building safety and urban planning.
• The subsidence exacerbates climate change effects, particularly in coastal cities, by accelerating sea level rise and increasing flood risks.
• Experts call for national and international responses to address the widespread issue of land sinking, highlighting the need for sustainable urban management practices.

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