Sea level rises last century were “extremely likely faster than during any of the 27 previous centuries”, according to a new report.

The paper, which maps global sea levels (GSL) over 2800 years, was written by university researchers from the US, UK, Germany and Singapore, and published online by the US National Academy of Sciences.

Based on “semi-empirical modelling”, the researchers argue that without global warming GSL in the 20th century “very likely” would have risen no more than 7cm – and perhaps even fallen 3cm – compared with the actual increase of 14cm.

“Historic GSL rise began in the 19th century and it is very likely GSL has risen over every 40-year interval since 1860… [and it] is extremely likely the 20th century GSL rise was faster than during any preceding century since at least [the year] 800.

“In the absence of anthropogenic climate change, it is extremely likely 20th-century GSL would have risen by less than 51% of the observed [increase].”

The researchers argue a reduction in the increase rate this century can be achieved through “strong mitigation efforts”.