Shored Up

The documentary opens by establishing the urgent issue of rising sea levels and its impact on coastal communities. It sets the stage for a critical discussion about climate change, emphasizing the stakes involved for millions of residents living close to the ocean.

The film captures moments in Long Beach Island, NJ, showcasing sunbathers enjoying the beach and families indulging in ice cream. This serene image contrasts sharply with the environmental threats faced by coastal areas throughout the changing seasons.

Filmed over three years, the documentary documents the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. It explores the destruction left in the storm's wake, underscoring the immediate consequences of climate change on coastal communities.

The narrative reveals tension between surfers and the Army Corps of Engineers over beach replenishment initiatives. While these efforts aim to protect properties from erosion, they often lead to altered surf breaks and ecological disruptions.

As the film shifts focus to the Outer Banks, NC, it delves into the pressing issue of sea level rise. This change highlights differing regional responses to climate threats and ongoing conflicts between development and environmental preservation.

The documentary discusses the progressive regulations in North Carolina designed to protect coastlines from overdevelopment. It examines the growing opposition to these regulations from political factions prioritizing development over ecological concerns.

Tension escalates during Coastal Resource Committee meetings where developers attempt to silence scientific recommendations. This confrontation highlights the political struggles embedded in coastal management practices.

Throughout the film, interviews with local leaders like Deborah Whitcraft, Margaret Schram, and Jonathon Oldham provide personal insights into the community's challenges. Their perspectives underscore the complexities of navigating development amid rising sea levels.

The film intertwines the history of Atlantic coast development, offering context for the current struggles faced by coastal towns. This historical backdrop serves to highlight the recurring themes of ambition versus environmental realities.

As the documentary progresses, it emphasizes the urgent need for transformative change in coastal management. It poses critical questions about the future of communities at sea level and highlights the importance of unified planning for sustainability.

The film features candid discussions with scientists who present data on climate change and its implications for sea level rise. Their insights serve as a foundation for the arguments advocating for better coastal management practices.

Shored Up makes efforts to engage viewers through various interactive platforms, including a mobile app and a website. These resources aim to raise awareness and inform the public about the importance of coastal preservation.

The documentary poignantly addresses the consequences of inaction in the face of climate threats. It reiterates the film’s central message that confronting the challenges posed by climate change is not only necessary but urgent.

In its conclusion, Shored Up reinforces the critical conversation about our relationship with the coast. It urges viewers to consider the impacts of human ambition on natural forces and to advocate for responsible, sustainable practices moving forward.