What in the World Why are some cities sinking?
Jul 22, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Aghnia Adzkia, a BBC journalist based in Jakarta, shares the alarming realities of her city sinking due to climate change and excessive groundwater extraction. She highlights Jakarta's unique geographical challenges and the innovative solutions residents are implementing. The podcast also features insights on rising sea levels from BBC climate correspondent Georgina Rannard and showcases inspiring projects like a floating school in Lagos, illustrating how communities adapt to these pressing environmental issues.
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Jakarta Sinking Causes
- Jakarta is sinking due to natural factors like compressible delta soil and excessive groundwater pumping.
- Groundwater extraction causes soil surface to compact and sinks the land where buildings stand.
Climate Change and Sea Rise
- Rising sea levels driven by climate change compound land sinking, worsening flood risks.
- Thermal expansion and melting ice are main causes of global sea level rise since 1880.
Jakarta Residents Adapt Homes
- Residents in northern Jakarta raise their house floors by 30cm to combat flooding.
- Buildings lean due to uneven ground from the land sinking, visibly impacting communities.