Tsunamis: Causes, impact, and recovery challenges

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37497/sdgs.v6istudies.46

Keywords:

Tsunamis, Climate Change, Disaster Risk Reduction, Marine Ecosystems, Sustainable Recovery

Abstract

Purpose: This paper explores the multifaceted causes, impacts, and recovery challenges associated with tsunamis, emphasizing their links to climate change, marine ecosystem degradation, and global sustainability efforts under SDG 13.

Design/Methodology/Approach: The study adopts a qualitative and integrative review of scientific literature and institutional reports. It examines the physical mechanisms of tsunamis, their socio-economic and psychological consequences, and the role of technological and policy-based interventions in disaster recovery.

Findings: Tsunamis, primarily triggered by underwater seismic events, are intensified by climate change through sea-level rise and coastal erosion. Beyond physical destruction, tsunamis disrupt social cohesion, livelihoods, and mental health, while marine debris exacerbates ecological damage. The paper identifies artificial reefs and mangrove restoration as key ecological strategies, complemented by policy frameworks such as Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) and Marine Spatial Planning (MSP). Technological innovations, including early warning systems and marine debris recovery projects (Ocean Cleanup, Seabin, WasteShark), enhance disaster preparedness and resilience. Moreover, international cooperation and financial mechanisms, such as the Green Climate Fund, are critical to supporting long-term recovery, particularly in developing nations.

Practical Implications: The importance of integrating ecosystem restoration, disaster risk reduction, and technology-based solutions into national and international resilience strategies.

Originality/Value: By linking climate action, marine sustainability, and post-disaster governance, the paper contributes to an interdisciplinary understanding of sustainable recovery from tsunamis.

Author Biographies

Rania Lampou, Greek Ministry of Education & Religious Affairs, Greece

Rania Lampou is a Global Educator, STEM instructor, ICT teacher trainer, and international inspirational keynote speaker in Greece. She has a post-graduate degree (M.Ed.) in language teaching related to cognitive neurosciences and she is also a passionate researcher on cognitive neurosciences and neuroeducation. She is a PhD candidate in environmental and peace education at the Noble International University of Canada. Currently, she is a STEM instructor at the Greek Astronomy and Space Company (Annex of Salamis) and she is also working at the Greek Ministry of Education, at the Directorate of Educational Technology and Innovation where she writes STE(A)M projects for Greek schools. She has been awarded many national and international prizes (over 100) and she is a “Global Teacher Award 2020” (AKS Awards) winner and a “Global Teacher Prize finalist 2019” (Varkey Foundation). Recently she has been selected as “Global Icon 2020” featured in “Passion Vista” Magazine, among the top 10 women entrepreneurs featured in “Fortune” and among the “100 most successful women in business” featured in an Amazon book by “Global Trade Chamber ”. She promotes STEM vision by introducing STEM in astronomy and physics projects and combines STEM with Language Teaching. She is the founder and international coordinator of many innovative international projects that focus on the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals described in the 2030 Agenda. She is also an author of scientific books for kids.

Rashmi Gujrati , Ludhiana Group of Colleges, Ludhiana

Professor & Dean of International Affairs and Campus Director of KC Group of Institutions in India. She is a Researcher, Teacher Educator, and Administrator. She has managerial skills in direction of achieving the goal of success to stature the academic community and demonstrates ample credibility for educational leadership, strategic thinking, team building, and resources developed for research and consultancy activities with emphasis on entrepreneurship skills contributing towards the development of the society. She has 32 years of experience in teaching.

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Published

2025-10-15

How to Cite

Lampou, R., Gujrati , R., & Hatipoglu, C. (2025). Tsunamis: Causes, impact, and recovery challenges. SDGs Studies Review , 6, e046. https://doi.org/10.37497/sdgs.v6istudies.46

Issue

Vol. 6 (2025): Continuous publication

Section

ARTICLES

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Copyright (c) 2025 Rania Lampou, Rashmi Gujrati , Cemalettin Hatipoglu (Author)

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.