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"Global warming and desertification are environmental issues which need to be tackled immediately" - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 13 - 2007
Question 13
"Global warming and desertification are environmental issues which need to be tackled immediately". Discuss the above statement, referring to examples you have studi... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:"Global warming and desertification are environmental issues which need to be tackled immediately" - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 13 - 2007
Step 1
Global Warming
Answer
Global warming is primarily caused by the increase in greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane in the atmosphere. It leads to rising global temperatures, which can result in catastrophic weather events, melting glaciers, and rising sea levels. One stark example is the impact of global warming on the Arctic region. The decrease in ice cover not only threatens polar ecosystems but also affects global weather patterns. If action is not taken promptly to reduce emissions, the consequences could be irreversible, affecting biodiversity and human communities worldwide.
Step 2
Desertification
Answer
Desertification refers to the process whereby fertile land becomes increasingly arid and unproductive, often due to factors like deforestation, overgrazing, and poor agricultural practices. An illustrative case is the Sahel region in Africa, which has suffered from severe droughts and land degradation. This leads to food insecurity and displacement of communities. Addressing desertification requires sustainable land management practices, as well as reforestation efforts to restore balance to ecosystems.
Step 3
Interconnection and Urgency
Answer
Both global warming and desertification are interconnected environmental issues that exacerbate each other. Increasing temperatures can worsen droughts, furthering desertification. Immediate action is crucial; governments, organizations, and individuals must collaborate to implement policies focusing on sustainability. Examples include adopting renewable energy sources, improving water management, and promoting agroforestry initiatives. By addressing these issues collectively, we can work towards a more sustainable future.