Venice under rising seas: can adaptation avert relocation?

A new Scientific Reports study evaluates Venice’s options against IPCC sea‑level rise projections and finds no single ‘best’ path. Protective measures like dikes or a wide “super levee” could shield the city up to about 0.5 m of rise at costs ranging from €0.5–4.5 billion (and over €30 billion for a broad barrier), but relocation may be needed beyond 4.5 m of rise after 2300, potentially costing up to €100 billion. Because large defenses take 30–50 years to build, early planning is essential. Venice’s challenges are compounded by its sinking ground (~1 mm/year), storm surges, and the need to balance residents, economy, ecosystems, and heritage in decision making.