Unit 4 - Climate - Climate Change Flashcards
How has/will climate change affect/affected the Artic and Polar regions?
Climate change is expected to significantly impact all regions, with the Arctic regions north of 65°N expected to experience the greatest impact. Polar warming has been over twice as rapid as global mean temperature increases between 1900 and 2005. This increase will affect pressure and winds, as well as the boundary between boreal forest and tundra. The Arctic region’s climate has also been impacted by increased growing season length and biodiversity loss. Research has shown evidence of the de-stabilization of the western Arctic high-pressure zone, known as the ‘Beaufort High’, which has been replaced by low-pressure systems since 2017.
How will climate change affect the world if no action is taken?
A 2018 report concluded that the world faces an environmental disaster unless we change our ways and face up to the damage we are doing. We are nearing the ‘tipping point’, where the effects of climate change become irreversible. To limit temperature rise to 1.5°C, we need to reduce CO2 emissions by 45% of 2010 levels by 2030 and to zero by mid-century. Predicted environmental and economic impacts include more severe weather events, threatened ecosystems, coastal flooding, sea-level rise affecting 10 million more people by 2100, sea ice-free summers in the Arctic, and severe impacts on ocean fisheries. Other impacts include large-scale singular events like ice sheet collapse, increased river flooding risk, decreased crop yields, and increased water scarcity. These impacts highlight the interconnectedness of economic and environmental impacts.
How can climate change be mitigated/managed?
Climate change poses a significant threat and requires a combination of mitigation and adaptation strategies. Adaptation strategies involve changing lifestyles, such as embracing GM technology, improving water storage capacity, and sustainable coastline management. These strategies can be local or global, with some being tailored to specific impacts. Mitigation focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing their storage. Examples include setting targets to reduce emissions, promoting renewable energy use, capturing carbon emissions, and changing lifestyles. Both strategies must operate together to positively respond to climate change. Both strategies are essential for a positive response to climate change.
