6.3 - human threats to the global climate systems

Question 1

what is land conversion

Answer 1

change from natural ecosystems -> alternative use

Question 2

thretas to the water an carbon cycle

Answer 2

-deforestation

-grassland conversion

-afforestation

Question 3

How is deforestation a threat to the water and carbon cycle

Answer 3

impacts water cycle:
▪ Less interception so more surface runoff and shorter lag time.
▪ Shorter lag time will increase flooding risk.
▪ More soil erosion as there are no tree roots to bind soil together.
▪ Eroded material in rivers.
▪ Less evaporation from vegetation

impacts carbon cycle:
▪ Reduction in carbon stored in biosphere.
▪ Reduction in carbon absorbed for photosynthesis.
▪ More carbon released from combustion.