Environmental Change & Management (Use it, Change it, Fix it) Flashcards
Changes in coastal environments – natural and human causes.
natural causes: Erosion, weather event, sea level rise, tides, natural disasters
human causes: development, pollution, dredging, beach nourishment, climate change
natural disasters: Earthquakes and tsunamis can reshape coastlines dramatically and quickly
weather events: Storms, hurricanes, and floods can cause sudden changes, like flooding and damage to land.
Pollution: Waste and chemicals from factories and cities can harm marine life and alter habitats.
Development: Building homes, roads, and businesses can change the landscape and disrupt natural processes.
Climate change impact on coastal environments
-Sea Level Rise
-increased Storm Intensity
-changes in Ecosystems
-Coastal Erosion
Coastal Erosion: With rising seas and stronger storms, beaches and cliffs can erode more quickly. This leads to the loss of important habitats and natural barriers that protect land.
changes in Ecosystems: Warmer temperatures can alter the habitats of plants and animals. Some species may move to cooler areas, disrupting local ecosystems and food chains.
Impact of human population growth on coasts
-increased development
-pollution
-overfishing
-habitat loss
overfishing: As the population grows, the demand for fish and seafood increases. Overfishing can deplete fish populations and disrupt marine ecosystems.
habitat loss: To make space for people, natural areas like mangroves and marshes are often cleared. These habitats are important for wildlife and help protect coastlines.
Coastal and marine pollution
-plastic pollution
-oil spills
-chemical pollution
-waste water
plastic pollution: Plastic waste, like bottles and bags, ends up in the ocean. Animals can mistake it for food, leading to injury or death. It also harms beautiful beaches and marine life.
oil spills: Oil leaks from ships or drilling sites into the water. Oil coats animals, making it hard for them to swim and find food. It can also damage habitats like coral reefs.
Management of coastal environments
-Protection of Natural Habitats
-Pollution Control
-Community Involvement
-Education and Awareness
pollution control: Reducing waste and chemicals that enter the ocean. Keeping the water clean helps protect marine life and makes coastal areas safe for people.
Education and Awareness: Teaching people about the importance of coastal environments and how to protect them. Educated communities are more likely to make choices that help the environment.
Case study: Elwood Beach
-revetment is the rocks in front of the sea wall
-sea level rising on the rocks
-rubbish all throughout the sand and rocks
-buildings down from the beach
-pier going across the beach
