Chinese Cities at Risk of Sinking – Major Threat for Urban Population

China’s Major Cities on the Brink: The Peril of Sinking Lands

In a groundbreaking assessment, Chinese scientists have revealed a concerning trend — nearly half of China's major cities are sinking. This phenomenon, known formally as subsidence, is exposing a significant segment of China's burgeoning urban population to increased risks, with projections stretching into the next several decades. The comprehensive study, featured in the journal Science, marks a pivotal moment in urban and environmental research, employing satellite data for a nationwide evaluation from 2015 to 2022.