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With reference to a coastal environment at a local scale, assess the predicted impact of climate change upon the landscape - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 3 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 3
With reference to a coastal environment at a local scale, assess the predicted impact of climate change upon the landscape. [20 marks]
Worked Solution & Example Answer:With reference to a coastal environment at a local scale, assess the predicted impact of climate change upon the landscape - AQA - A-Level Geography - Question 3 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
Overview of Climate Change Impact on Coastal Environments
Answer
Climate change is predicted to significantly impact coastal environments through rising sea levels, increased storm intensity, and altered weather patterns. These factors contribute to coastal erosion, flooding, and habitat loss, thus affecting both natural landscapes and human activities.
At a local scale, this is particularly evident in regions like Great Yarmouth in the UK, where its coastal proximity makes it vulnerable to these changes.
Step 2
Assessing Rising Sea Levels
Answer
One significant impact of climate change on coastal landscapes is the rise in sea levels, which is estimated to rise by 1 to 2 meters by 2100 according to various climate models. In Great Yarmouth, this could inundate low-lying areas and drastically alter the landscape, leading to the loss of valuable ecosystems and increased risk of flooding for infrastructure.
As sea levels rise, saltwater intrusion may also affect freshwater resources, leading to conflicts between coastal communities and agricultural practices.
Step 3
Increased Storm Intensity and Erosion
Answer
Climate change is expected to contribute to more intense storm systems, leading to increased coastal erosion. This phenomenon can erode coastlines at a faster rate than natural processes can replenish them. In areas like Great Yarmouth, this results in the undercutting of cliffs, leading to further landscape changes.
Mitigation strategies such as constructing sea walls and restoring natural buffers like wetlands are often employed, but these require significant planning and resources.
Step 4
Human Response and Management Challenges
Answer
Communities in vulnerable coastal regions must adapt to these changing conditions. In Great Yarmouth, strategies include the Great Yarmouth Coastal Path and flood risk management initiatives. However, the high financial cost and complexity of such projects pose challenges.
For instance, examining the long-term sustainability of current management strategies is imperative due to projected climate scenarios that may become increasingly severe, requiring communities to be proactive rather than reactive.
Step 5
Conclusion
Answer
In conclusion, the predicted impacts of climate change on coastal landscapes, particularly in locations like Great Yarmouth, are profound. Rising sea levels, intensified storms, and the changing nature of coastal ecosystems necessitate comprehensive, adaptive management strategies to mitigate these impacts. Continuous monitoring and community engagement are essential to develop adaptive responses that ensure the resilience of coastal environments against the backdrop of climate change.