The impacts of climate change Flashcards
1. What are the impacts of climate change linked to?
The impacts of climate change are almost all linked back to temperature rise from carbon emissions either directly or indirectly. This temperature rise is caused by the greenhouse gas effect, which traps solar radiation within the atmosphere.
- What is the shrinking cryosphere?
The shrinking cryosphere refers to the reduction in global ice, including ice caps, sea ice, glaciers, and permafrost, due to increasing temperatures. Since 1980, Arctic sea ice has decreased by 40%. Around 30 gigatons of glacial ice is lost every year, with the rate being 40% higher compared to 2000. While the effects of shrinking cryosphere are more prominent at higher latitudes and altitudes, glaciers provide essential water sources for rivers, particularly in the Himalayas and Andes. The impact of shrinking cryosphere is dynamic and will continue to increase with rising temperatures. It affects various populations, including indigenous Arctic communities and those working in the ski industry. The environment also faces negative consequences, such as the possible extinction of species native to Tundra regions. However, economically, countries like Canada and Russia could benefit from increased agricultural potential and new trade routes in the Arctic Ocean. It is worth noting that while 85% of glaciers are losing mass, 15% are gaining, indicating a lack of spatial homogeneity.
- What causes rising sea levels?
Rising sea levels are primarily caused by increasing temperatures and the melting of the cryosphere, which adds more water to the oceans. Thermal expansion of seawater also contributes to sea level rise. In the 21st century, the rate of sea level rise has been over triple that of 1900. Approximately 290 million people worldwide live less than 5 meters above sea level, and 40% of the global population lives within 100 kilometers of a coastline. However, the impact on deeply landlocked areas is minimal, except for indirect effects like climate migration. Future sea level rise is inevitable, with projections indicating a rise of 0-2 meters under a 1.5°C temperature increase by 2100, 2-6 meters under a 2°C increase, and as much as 19-22 meters under a 5°C increase. By 2100, it is estimated that there will be twice as many people living less than 5 meters above sea level. The most vulnerable to rising sea levels include subsistence farmers who rely on coastal crops, fishermen, and nations like Tuvalu that may face the complete loss of their territory. Low-lying areas, particularly those with softer rocks, are more susceptible to coastal erosion. Coral reefs, which depend on shallow water, are also at risk as less sunlight reaches them, causing coral bleaching and death. Global variations in sea level rise rates are influenced by the gravitational pull of ice sheets and the rebounding of the ocean’s surface, leading to isostatic adjustments. For example, Scandinavia experiences a comparative decrease in sea level, while the Gulf of Mexico sees an increase.
- How does climate change contribute to the spread of tropical diseases?
Climate change contributes to the spread of tropical diseases, such as malaria. Currently, there are over 230 million cases of malaria worldwide, resulting in approximately 400,000 deaths each year. The most affected areas are in Sub-Saharan Africa, South and Southeast Asia, Central America, and northern South America, within the tropical regions. The impact of tropical diseases is less pronounced in areas of higher latitudes. Climate change leads to changes in the distribution of these diseases, expanding areas previously unaffected. Examples include the Southern USA, Turkey, and Uzbekistan. However, wealthier countries like the USA have a greater capacity to cope compared to Uzbekistan. The affected areas constantly change, and as temperatures rise, the impact will continue to evolve. The most vulnerable groups are the youngest and oldest individuals, with children under 5 accounting for two-thirds of global malaria deaths. Africa bears the brunt of malaria cases, with 94% of cases and deaths occurring on the continent. Poorer populations and countries face greater struggles, as wealthier areas can afford appropriate drugs to prevent malaria. The impact on the environment, however, is minimal.
- How does climate change affect tropical storms?
Climate change is predicted to make tropical storms more intense due to higher temperatures. Although tropical storms already occur between 8-20° North and South, the expansion of these zones due to climate change is uncertain. Approximately 90 tropical storms occur annually, impacting around 800 million people and causing 250,000 deaths over the last 20 years. These storms primarily affect coastal areas within the tropics. South America, specifically, does not experience tropical storms due to colder water currents from the Antarctic. The combination of more intense storm surges and rising sea levels will result in more devastating impacts, particularly affecting farmers near the coast and consequently impacting local communities and countries reliant on coastal agriculture. The frequency of tropical storms is not necessarily increased by climate change, as multiple factors must align, including sea temperature of at least 27°C, low and consistent winds, and a sufficient distance from the equator for the Coriolis force.
- How are forest fires influenced by climate change?
Climate change leads to an increase in forest fires as temperatures rise. Extreme heatwaves, which are occurring five times more frequently, are one of the main factors contributing to forest fires. 70% of all tree cover loss from fires happens in Boreal forests, with Boreal forest fire frequency increasing by 3% per year over the last two decades. The Amazon region is particularly at risk, but climate change could also expand the affected areas to previously colder regions. Weather and wind patterns play a role in the dynamics of forest fires, and as temperatures continue to rise, the frequency of fires is expected to increase. Forest fires not only release vast amounts of carbon into the atmosphere, contributing to further temperature rise, but they also remove carbon sinks, creating a positive feedback loop.
- How does climate change contribute to droughts?
Climate change leads to more frequent droughts and water scarcity as temperatures rise. Groundwater stores and aquifers start to dry up, exacerbating the drought conditions. In 2021, Madagascar experienced the world’s first climate change-induced famine due to a drought. Western India and various parts of Africa, including Nigeria, are the most at risk of drought and water stress. Since 1900, 44% of drought events have occurred in Africa. Regions with less economic resources will be harder hit, with the Sahel region having less capacity to cope compared to Europe. Economies heavily dependent on agricultural goods, such as Ukraine, which is at high risk of drought, will be significantly impacted. Droughts can also affect global food stores, potentially impacting millions, if not billions, of people. It is worth noting that Northern Australia may experience fewer droughts due to climate change.
