Sea levels could rise faster than levels predicted by the UN Climate Change Panel, warn environmental scientists. A team of researchers at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact argue that a rise of 18 – 59cm by 2100, as advanced by the panel, is too cautious. The team estimates that a more realistic figure would be above one metre, even if greenhouse gas emissions are lowered. Short-term goals to reduce emissions, say the team, are therefore critical.