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Question 9: Global climate change - Scottish Highers Geography - Question 9 - 2018
Question 9
Question 9: Global climate change. (a) Discuss a range of possible impacts of global climate change. (b) Attempts are being made to both reduce greenhouse gases an... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Question 9: Global climate change - Scottish Highers Geography - Question 9 - 2018
Step 1
Discuss a range of possible impacts of global climate change.
Answer
Global climate change poses numerous challenges to the environment and society. Some of the notable impacts include:
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Rising Sea Levels: Increased temperatures cause polar ice melt and thermal expansion of seawater, leading to higher sea levels that threaten coastal communities.
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Extreme Weather Events: There is an increase in both the frequency and severity of weather events, such as hurricanes, droughts, and floods, which can devastate regions and disrupt livelihoods.
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Effects on Biodiversity: Altered habitats can lead to species migration, altering ecosystems significantly and leading to potential extinction of species unable to adapt.
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Food Security Issues: Changes in climate can affect agricultural productivity due to altered rainfall patterns and pests, potentially leading to food shortages.
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Health Risks: The rise in temperature can contribute to health issues, such as heat-related illnesses, and assist in the spread of infectious diseases.
Each of these impacts demonstrates the interconnectedness of climate and society, necessitating immediate attention.
Step 2
Explain possible strategies for managing climate change.
Answer
Effective management of climate change can be approached through various strategies, including:
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Reducing Carbon Footprint: Individuals can adopt practices such as reducing energy consumption, using public transportation, and recycling to minimize greenhouse gas emissions.
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Adopting Renewable Energy Sources: Transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy like solar, wind, and hydroelectric power can significantly reduce greenhouse gas production.
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Carbon Offsetting: Initiatives such as tree planting help absorb CO2, which can offset emissions from other activities.
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Legislation and Policies: Governments can enforce regulations that limit emissions from industries and promote sustainable practices.
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Public Awareness and Education: Campaigns to educate individuals and communities about climate change can encourage sustainable actions and increase public pressure on policymakers to act.
Overall, a multifaceted approach combining personal responsibility, renewable energy adoption, and strong policy frameworks is critical in managing climate change.