Describe two projected impacts of global climate change or loss of biodiversity.

Question 1

Atmosphere

Answer 1

• Global surface temperatures have increased by approximately 1.1°C since the Industrial Revolution, and further warming is anticipated in the 21st century due to historical emissions.
• Temperature changes will vary by region, and the rate of temperature increase is accelerating. Projections suggest global temperatures between 2016-2035 could be 0.3°C to 0.7°C warmer than the 1986-2005 average.
• Australia’s climate has warmed by an average of 1.44°C since 1910, with projections indicating an additional increase of 0.6°C to 1.5°C by 2030.
• Heatwaves are expected to become more frequent and longer in duration as global temperatures rise, posing challenges to public health and infrastructure.
• Extreme precipitation events are predicted to intensify and occur more frequently in various regions, potentially leading to increased flooding and related hazards.

Question 2

Ice Sheets & Glaciers:

Answer 2

• Ice loss has increased from 25 billion metric tonnes 1990s to 278 billion per year by 2021, resulting in over a 50% loss of glacier ice since the 19th century.
• Rising temperatures lead to reduced ice accumulation and increased ice melting
• Mountain glaciers in regions like the Alaskan Ranges and Alps, are severely affected, with an estimated 50% loss projected by 2100. Notably, glaciers in New Zealand have receded by 2.5 km in the last century.
• Melting glaciers disrupt habitats and ecosystems, altering species relationships and food resources, while exposing organisms to new predators.
• Arctic animal populations are declining due to warming, with southern species moving northward, threatening native Arctic species. For example, The polar bear, an Arctic apex predator, faces a risk of extinction within this century.
• Some positive effects of melting glaciers and ice sheets include improved conditions for species like Adélie penguins, as lower ice levels make foraging and breeding easier.