Study reveals alarming rates of subsidence in China’s major cities

A study utilizing nationwide satellite data, published in the journal Science, indicates that nearly half of China’s major cities are experiencing “moderate to severe” levels of subsidence, with 45% of urban land sinking faster than 3 millimeters per year, and 16% sinking at rates exceeding 10 mm per year. 

Led by researchers from South China Normal University, the study highlights that subsidence, driven by declining water tables and the weight of urban infrastructure, poses significant risks to millions of people, particularly in light of rising sea levels.