Geotechnical Engineering: Building Resilience Against Rising Sea Levels

Global temperatures are rising at a rate of 0.15 to 0.20 degrees Celsius per decade, with 2023 marking the hottest year on record. This accelerating warming is driving higher sea levels, creating significant threats for coastal cities, ecosystems, and infrastructure. Subsea geotechnical engineers are crucial in developing solutions to mitigate these risks. To meet the increasing demand for resilient infrastructure, it’s vital to attract and retain skilled professionals while ensuring they remain equipped with the necessary tools to navigate an evolving landscape. 

What is subsea geotechnical engineering? 

Subsea geotechnical engineers analyze the seabed and soil beneath to ensure subsea structures are built on firm, stable foundations. They assess site conditions, investigate the composition of materials, and evaluate potential risks such as erosion, soil liquefaction, and seismic activity. Whether developing offshore wind farms, oil platforms, or coastal protection systems, these engineers provide essential data for safe and durable designs 

The impact of rising sea levels 

The effects of rising sea levels are most pronounced in coastal regions, where populations and infrastructure are at risk. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), sea levels could rise by 1 meter by 2100 if current emissions trends continue. This shift threatens low-lying areas, and cities such as Miami, New York, and New Orleans face heightened risks from flooding, storm surges, and saltwater intrusion. In these locations, protecting existing infrastructure and developing new systems capable of withstanding the growing pressure of rising waters is paramount. 

Subsea geotechnical engineering’s role in adaptation 

Subsea engineers are vital in both developing protective infrastructure and guiding renewable energy projects that help reduce future emissions. Their expertise is essential in the design and construction of systems that can withstand rising seas and extreme weather events. 

1. Protecting coastal infrastructure Cities around the world are investing heavily in flood defense systems to protect against the encroaching sea. This includes large-scale projects such as the San Francisco Bay Area Seawall Program, aimed at protecting the Bay Area’s critical infrastructure. Engineers conduct detailed seabed surveys to ensure that the structures are built on firm, stable ground that can endure future storm surges and tidal movements. 

2. Offshore renewable energy Offshore wind energy is increasingly seen as a key solution to reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The U.S. has made significant strides in developing offshore wind projects, particularly along the East Coast. One such project, the Vineyard Wind farm in Massachusetts, relies on subsea geotechnical engineers to assess seabed conditions for the installation of turbines. Ensuring the stability of these turbines, even as sea levels rise, is critical for their longevity and continued power generation. 

3. Building resilient coastal communities In addition to protecting existing infrastructure, subsea geotechnical engineers help shape the future of coastal cities. They evaluate soil stability, potential flood risks, and erosion hazards, guiding the design of new buildings and land reclamation projects. One notable example is Miami Beach, where engineers are working on a multi-billion-dollar plan to raise streets and install pumps to mitigate flooding caused by rising tides and stormwater. 

The global talent gap 

As the impacts of climate change become more evident, the demand for skilled subsea geotechnical engineers is rising. However, there is a growing talent shortage in the industry, which threatens the timely completion of vital projects. From protecting major cities like Los Angeles and Miami to developing offshore energy systems along the Gulf Coast, the need for qualified engineers is crucial. 

This talent gap is a significant concern as existing engineers may not have the capacity to meet the demand for increasingly complex projects. Furthermore, new generations of professionals must be trained in the latest technologies and methodologies to manage the challenges posed by rising sea levels. 

At LVI Associates, we specialize in sourcing top geotechnical talent for organizations tackling these urgent challenges. With our broad network and deep understanding of the sector, we help connect companies to professionals who can drive these critical projects forward. We also prioritize the upskilling of engineers, ensuring they have the knowledge to apply the latest innovations and techniques in their work. 

The role of technology and innovation 

Innovation is changing the landscape of subsea geotechnical engineering, providing engineers with powerful tools to address the challenges of rising sea levels. Technologies such as remote sensing, unmanned underwater vehicles, and high-resolution seismic imaging allow engineers to conduct detailed surveys and gather more accurate data on seabed conditions. This enables more precise foundation designs for structures in challenging marine environments. 

One technology gaining traction is the use of advanced modeling software to simulate the long-term impact of climate change on coastal areas. By modeling how structures will perform under different scenarios, engineers can create more resilient solutions that are adaptable to future sea-level changes. In the case of the Coastal Texas Study, engineers used state-of-the-art tools to model the effects of various storm and sea-level rise scenarios on the Gulf Coast, informing the design of new flood control projects. 

Additionally, sustainable construction practices are increasingly important. Subsea engineers are focusing on designing structures that not only resist the effects of rising seas but also minimize environmental impact. The development of eco-friendly materials and techniques is helping reduce the carbon footprint of infrastructure projects while increasing their durability in the face of climate change. 

As these technologies advance, organizations in subsea engineering are actively seeking professionals skilled in these innovative tools to drive progress. The demand for engineers who are experienced in using advanced modeling, seismic imaging, and sustainable construction techniques is growing rapidly.  

At LVI Associates, we specialize in connecting organizations with top geotechnical talent who are equipped with the expertise needed to navigate the latest technological advancements. If you're looking for skilled professionals who can help your organization design and implement resilient, climate-adaptive solutions, reach out to us for a call back. Let us help you build a future-proof workforce capable of addressing the critical challenges ahead.