Coastal cities worldwide vulnerable to climate change. A recent United Nations report pointed out that although coastal areas less than 10 meters above sea level represent only 2 percent of the world's land mass, these same locations are home to 10 percent of the world’s total population. With sea levels continuing to rise, the more than 3,300 cities in these low-lying regions are expected to be affected.
 
In the foreword to the report, Anna Tibaijuka, Executive Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme, calls on cities and national governments to address the challenges posed by global warming.

Our heartfelt thanks, Executive Director Tibaijuka and United Nations researchers for your preparation of this timely report. Let us be unified in caring actions to secure a brighter future for all Earth’s inhabitants.