Green Climate Seeker

Tag: Going Green with Biofuels

  • The Future of Climate Change – What Can We Expect?

    The Future of Climate Change – What Can We Expect?

    By heeding the IPCC’s urgent advice to limit warming, we may be able to prevent crossing critical thresholds that could have irreparable repercussions for both people and nature.

    But if we continue releasing carbon dioxide at its current pace, the future of climate change could look very different. Warmer temperatures will have different effects in each region; lower- and middle-income countries may be particularly hard hit.

    Climate change is already happening.

    Rising concentrations of heat-trapping greenhouse gases are warming our planet, altering rainfall patterns, and raising sea levels. Rising temperatures increase the risk of heatwaves, floods, droughts, wildfires and heat waves while making crops less productive – leading to food shortages and placing species further at risk of extinction. Many of these changes have already begun taking effect and are predicted to intensify over time.

    But we can avoid some of these impacts by rapidly reducing emissions and slowing warming down. Every fraction of a degree that we delay will reduce human suffering and death while protecting more natural systems on Earth.

    Climate change is a complex phenomenon, making its effects impossible to accurately predict. Thankfully, scientists are constantly improving their knowledge of both natural and human factors that impact climate. Working collaboratively, they produce assessments reports to better inform us as to what’s occurring now, what may occur in the future, and what steps can be taken against it.

    One key factor is “feedbacks.” These positive or negative feedback loops can accelerate or slow climate change. As the atmosphere warms, more water vapour – another greenhouse gas with short lifetime but nonetheless an amplifier of warming – accumulates. Meanwhile, melting glaciers expose dark ocean surfaces and land surfaces to sunlight which further amplifies warming.

    Other essential feedbacks involve the sensitivity of climate systems to natural and human-induced forcings. For instance, some Arctic ecosystems are particularly sensitive to warming; as temperatures rise they could breach critical thresholds that lead to irreversible or catastrophic changes.

    These impacts are unevenly distributed around the world. Although developing countries have contributed the least greenhouse gas emissions, they will bear most of the consequences of climate change due to its devastating effects. Poor people often lack financial resources necessary for adaptation and are highly dependent on an intact natural world for survival, putting them at particular risk from extreme weather events and biodiversity loss.

    It’s happening now.

    Climate change is already having an enormous global impact, from coast erosion due to rising sea levels to polar bears’ exposure to hunger and disease as Arctic ice retreats; droughts threaten food supplies and freshwater supplies; heat waves increase deaths caused by malnutrition, dehydration and heart attacks – as well as deaths caused by coastal erosion due to rising sea levels.

    Warmer climates tend to bring with them heavier rainfall and storms. Increased water temperatures make coral reefs vulnerable to bleaching and increase the likelihood of flooding, while decreasing carbon sinks (land and ocean ecosystems) means that more carbon enters into the atmosphere as a result.

    Extreme weather events are projected to become increasingly severe around the globe, placing more people at risk from climate-related disasters. Climate change exacerbates existing inequities; poor countries that contributed the least to global warming will likely experience its worst effects and have less access to resources for adaptation.

    It is likely that the next few years will be among the warmest on record, driven by heat-trapping greenhouse gases and natural factors like an El Nino event. There is currently a 66% probability that near-surface global temperature will surpass 1998 record high temperatures by the end of 2018.

    As long as our emissions continue on their current course, it’s impossible for us to avoid passing key thresholds that would lead to irreversible climate change. These critical thresholds, or “tipping points”, would trigger domino effects across Earth’s climate system and accelerate and intensify any initial warming; such examples include Greenland Ice Sheet collapse or rapid thaw of Arctic permafrost that releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

    But if we act now, we can reduce emissions and keep global temperatures from increasing by more than 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. That is the goal of the Paris Agreement and requires unprecedented global cooperation and action by governments, cities, companies and individuals alike. Progress has already begun: states across the US are supporting renewable energy; mayors and city leaders have prioritized equity when developing climate action plans; while companies have pledged to reach net zero carbon by 2050.

    It’s happening in the future.

    Many changes already underway are projected to accelerate over the coming decades. We face record-shattering heat waves in California as well as devastating floods and droughts in Africa and Asia that threaten our livelihoods, which could worsen without significant reductions of heat-trapping greenhouse gases emissions.

    By cutting fossil fuel use in half by 2030 and eliminating carbon emissions entirely by the early 2050s, our world could still have a chance at keeping warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels. Any delay will drastically diminish those odds and guarantee an ever more dangerous future for humanity.

    Scientists are witnessing unprecedented climate change worldwide and across Earth’s systems. Some changes such as continued sea level rise may become irreversible over hundreds or even thousands of years.

    Although climate pollution will have far-reaching impacts, human ingenuity and people’s shared desire to live on a cleaner world will enable us to reach net zero emissions by 2040. States, cities and corporations alike are advocating renewable energy; prioritizing climate equity policymaking; and pledge to reach net-zero emissions before 2040.

    Tackling global climate change will be no easy feat. To be successful in doing so, success must also include addressing intersecting crises of poverty, inequality and climate-related disasters that drive displacement – especially since climate-related impacts will disproportionately affect communities with limited resources.

    An important consideration when it comes to wildlife is how climate change will impact their lives. With temperatures shifting, many species will seek cooler environments or higher altitudes as temperatures change, or alter seasonal behavior altogether – creating massive shifts that alter ecosystems fundamentally or result in the extinction of many species.

    Coral reefs and Arctic sea ice will likely disappear completely under a 2-degree Celsius warming scenario, while beyond this threshold millions more will continue to experience life-threatening heat waves, water scarcity and coastal flooding.

    It’s a matter of time.

    The global climate system is an intricate network, and each element will take time to react to atmospheric changes. Response times will differ; for instance, atmosphere and upper layer ocean currents may adapt more quickly than deeper ocean or polar ice sheets.

    A doubling of CO2 emissions would result in global warming of about one degree Celsius, but its overall effect will likely be much greater due to feedback processes within the climate system which dampen or amp up initial warming effects. Scientists predict that different parts of the world may respond to climate change at differing rates, creating disparate environmental impacts across global regions.

    Humanity’s future hinges upon our ability to effectively address the climate crisis. By mitigating global warming and slowing its impacts, fewer people will be exposed to its impacts, while our civilization can move toward renewable energy sources more quickly. But accomplishing this requires more than human ingenuity; it also necessitates dramatic and rapid reductions of economic, social, and political factors that exacerbate its effects.

    Climate Change impacts can already be observed through increased sea level rise, reduced Arctic snow cover, hotter temperatures, severe droughts and wildfires occurring more often, as well as more intense heat waves – many occurring more rapidly than anticipated by scientists.

    Climate change has devastating impacts on our natural environment, endangering species globally and placing at risk more than half of all animal species on Earth – from iconic icons like Polar bears and Amazon rainforest inhabitants, such as iconic icons such as Polar bears or iconic creatures like beetles and coral reefs, through to less well-known creatures like beetles and coral reefs. Climate change also exacerbates biodiversity loss through direct exploitation (hunting/poaching) as well as indirect degradation (land conversion to agriculture).

    In order to protect biodiversity, comprehensive climate solutions that include strategies that reduce other threats-such as poverty and inequality-are key. Furthermore, to avoid catastrophic levels of warming by 2050 it will be vitally important that greenhouse gas emissions like carbon dioxide are brought down significantly through reductions in coal, oil, and gas usage, plus an unprecedented effort by governments, businesses and individuals alike.

  • Hotter Than Ever: Heat’s Role in Supercharged Hurricanes

    Hotter Than Ever: Heat’s Role in Supercharged Hurricanes

    The deadly heat that has killed people in national parks this summer is a reminder of the human toll of climate change. Heat kills more people in the US than hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes combined.

    Scientists know that a warmer atmosphere holds more water vapor, which enhances moisture convergence and rainfall rates in storm systems like hurricanes. Two studies (Knutson and Tuleya 1998) and (Guzman and Jiang 2021) found that anthropogenic climate warming has increased extreme rainfall rates over land, including those in hurricanes.

    Temperature

    Temperature is a measure of the average kinetic energy of particles in matter. Higher temperatures mean the particles have more kinetic energy and are moving faster. This is why warmer air can hold more moisture than cooler air. During a hurricane, this extra moisture raises the storm’s potential for extreme rain events. Anthropogenic climate change has supercharged our hurricanes by increasing the amount of water vapor in their clouds and raising the atmospheric temperature.

    Heat can also be defined as the difference in the internal energy of a system (which includes kinetic, potential, and other forms of energy) at two different times. The concept of heat as a transfer of internal energy between two physically separate regions of the same system is the theoretical basis for the concept of temperature, which describes the rate of flow of thermal energy among those parts of a physical system.

    The most commonly used temperature scales are the Celsius and Fahrenheit scales, both of which have 100 increments between their freezing and boiling points. However, the International System of Units has another temperature scale known as Kelvin, with 0 Kelvin being absolute zero.

    For most of the history of thermodynamics, there was a tight link between heat and temperature, with heat being thought to be a form of energy that was transferred from one region of the system to another via a transfer process. This idea of heat as an inexorable transfer of energy between two parts of a system was developed by Benjamin Thompson, Humphry Davy, Sadi Carnot, and others during the eighteenth century.

    In 1848, James Prescott Joule reorganized this thinking by describing latent and sensible heat as two components of heat that impacted distinct physical phenomena. He distinguished between potential energy, possessed via a distancing of particles where attraction was over a longer distance and a form of potential energy, and kinetic energy, possessed by the vibrating and clumping molecules in a substance and a form of kinetic energy. This separation was a key advance in our modern understanding of heat. Despite this distinction, heat and temperature continue to be closely related concepts, and both can affect the motion of particles within a material.

    Moisture

    Water vapor, the gaseous form of H2O, is playing an outsized role in fueling destructive hurricanes and accelerating climate change. The secret energy source of these large weather engines is a massive reservoir of latent heat trapped in water molecules. When water evaporates into air in the warm tropical oceans, that energy is released, but only slowly, and only when the vapor condenses to form raindrops. The energy release is what makes storms so potent, and it’s why the amount of vapor in the atmosphere has increased globally by 4 percent since the mid-1990s.

    A lot of this extra vapor is being supplied by the warming oceans. As they absorb more and more of the heat-trapping greenhouse gases we’re pumping into them, the seas are getting hotter. That boosts their surface temperature, and when the warmer water rises into the atmosphere, it boosts the strength of hurricanes forming over it.

    This is true even for storms that don’t move over the warmest parts of the ocean. The same effect is occurring in the northern Atlantic, where some of the strongest hurricanes on record have formed and strengthened over waters that are abnormally warm for this time of year.

    As the water vapor concentrations in these storms increase, their wind speeds and rainfall rates also speed up. This is because warmer air can hold more vapor than cool air, so it can carry heavier clouds and heavier rains.

    The increased vapor also contributes to slower decay times for hurricanes as they approach land. This means that a storm can linger over a region, delivering more intense rainfall and causing devastating floods.

    These impacts can be felt far inland as well, in places like Tampa and southwest Florida, where heavy rains can cause widespread flooding and destruction. And, though scientists aren’t sure what’s causing it, the recent spate of monster storms — like Hurricane Ian, which became a Category 4 storm in less than 24 hours and is now barreling toward Tampa Bay — seems to be being turbocharged by climate change. That is, the build-up of heat-trapping greenhouse gases is making these storms slower and wetter, and boosting their intensity and enhancing the deadly effects of storm surge and freshwater flooding.

    Wind

    In the case of hurricanes, wind is the energy source that powers them through the atmosphere. In the early 1840s, James Prescott Joule defined two forms of energy: latent heat (energy possessed by particles through attraction over a greater distance, or potential energy) and sensible heat (energy associated with the motion of those particles, or kinetic energy).

    The distinction between these energies helps scientists understand the physics behind how wind is generated and the ways it can change as temperatures and moisture levels change, especially in a hurricane’s eyewall. The physics also has important implications for the role that climate change may play in future hurricanes.

    A warming ocean produces more evaporation, which means more energy is released into the atmosphere to power storms and generate rain. This basic understanding, along with computer simulations of hurricanes in current and future climates, leads to high confidence that rainfall rates during hurricanes will increase by about 7% per degree of global warming.

    There is medium confidence that the proportion of hurricanes that make U.S. landfall will increase with global warming, but there is no consensus among studies on the exact size of this effect. It is important to note, however, that hurricanes are driven by a range of factors besides temperature and moisture, including the speed at which they develop and their interaction with other weather systems and topography.

    Some experts have used their understanding of the physics of hurricanes to develop attribution research, which seeks to identify the extent to which climate change influences the number of hurricanes that form and how many of them reach land. Detailed attribution work is needed to understand the full extent of the impacts from climate change on hurricanes, and it is still too soon to know whether there will be any detectable human-caused increases in the frequency of hurricanes and major hurricanes overall, or the number that make landfall on US shores. However, there is high confidence that if the number of Atlantic hurricanes continues to increase as projected, their intensity will rise by about one-half category on the Saffir-Simpson scale, with the same percentage increase in near-storm rainfall.

    Pressure

    Pressure is the force per unit area exerted on a surface by a liquid. It is inversely proportional to the distance from the surface, and it is always equal to the gravitational acceleration (g) of the fluid at that point. When a liquid is squeezed, the pressure increases. When a liquid expands, the pressure decreases. This is because the force exerted by a liquid on any given area is a function of its temperature and volume, and the density of the fluid.

    The simplest physical example is water rushing out of a hole in a bucket. As the water reaches the hole, it is forced against the bottom of the bucket and against other parts of the rim in an attempt to maintain its shape. The force exerted on each part of the rim is different, and therefore, the total force exerted on the bucket is less. Similarly, as a hurricane gains strength and moves towards the coastline, the atmospheric pressure exerted on it is greater.

    When a tropical storm becomes a hurricane, the atmospheric pressure is greater than the oceanic surface tension, which causes the center of the storm to rise above the surrounding area. This results in a depression (or low pressure) on the lower side of the storm, and a high pressure region on the upper side. The difference between these two regions produces wind.

    An increase in the atmospheric pressure also increases the amount of energy a hurricane has. This additional energy allows a hurricane to maintain its size, and it can help the storm move faster.

    In addition, a warmer planet holds more water vapor than a cooler one. This extra moisture can increase the amount of rain a hurricane brings with it when it moves inland. A study of the rainiest hurricanes on record found a medium confidence that anthropogenic climate change has contributed to a greater than normal contribution to these rainfall extremes (van Oldenborgh et al. 2017; Risser and Wehner, 2017).

    In 1847, James Prescott Joule characterized the concepts of latent heat and sensible heat as distinct physical phenomena. He defined latent heat as the energy possessed by a system by virtue of its physical position, and sensible heat as the energy of moving particles.

  • Global Sea Levels and Climate Change

    Global Sea Levels and Climate Change

    Global sea levels (also called eustatic sea level) have fluctuated over Earth’s history. These climate changes are driven by the shape and volume of ocean basins and the location of land and water.

    At local scales, sea levels rise more or less than the global average due to things like groundwater pumping, natural climate variability and changes in the height of the land.

    Climate change

    As oceans absorb more of the heat-trapping pollution that human activities pump into the atmosphere, they are warming and rising. This is known as climate change, and it’s affecting everything from the distribution of ice sheets to the timing of peak flows in rivers and streams. The effects vary from place to place, but they all add up.

    For instance, sea level rise (SLR) threatens to inundate island nations and low-lying areas around the world. Some of these areas contain vital coastal ecosystems and the world’s largest cities. Some ten percent of the global population lives within 10 meters of sea level, and it’s estimated that SLR will displace tens of millions of people by 2050.

    SLR is also a key factor behind increased flood risks to cities and regions, as well as reduced freshwater availability in some places. It’s the reason why many governments are working to build sea-level rise-resistant infrastructure, including levees, dikes, walls and other engineering projects.

    Since the early 1990s, when NASA and France’s space agency Centre National d’Etudes Spatiales started flying satellite altimeters, scientists have been gathering a unique space-based record of sea surface height that goes back decades. This data helps scientists track the rate at which sea levels are changing, and it’s a critical complement to tide gauges.

    The SLR data has shown that the pace of change is accelerating, and the rate at which oceans are rising will likely accelerate further over the next few decades. But it’s difficult to predict how fast sea levels will rise, particularly because the underlying conditions that drive SLR are complex and variable.

    Scientists are developing methods to improve our ability to predict and respond to the impacts of climate change, including SLR. They’re investigating how to integrate SLR into planning and decision-making for regional and national infrastructure projects, such as how high to build flood protections. They’re also studying the political decision-making processes that influence the design and funding of large infrastructure projects, such as bridges and dams.

    It’s also important to keep in mind that even if we stopped adding carbon dioxide to the atmosphere tomorrow, it will take years, or perhaps centuries, for the Earth’s systems to respond and stabilize. And this will have impacts on communities that contributed least to the problem, like island nations and future generations.

    Ocean currents

    Ocean currents are continuous, directed movements of seawater that occur because of forces acting on it such as breaking waves, the Coriolis effect, temperature and salinity differences, and tides caused by the gravitational pull of the Moon and Sun. The movement of water can be horizontal, planar to the surface of the ocean, or vertical up and down within the body of water (at least 300 meters). Ocean currents travel thousands of miles and establish a global conveyer belt, transporting heat, carbon, nutrients and freshwater around the world.

    For example, some currents move warmer water into the Arctic Ocean from the Gulf Stream and the Kuroshio current. This helps the Arctic ecosystem by bringing in food sources such as zooplankton. But it also increases the speed of storms and makes hurricanes stronger. And since warming ocean waters are less dense, they take up more space than cool ones, raising sea levels.

    Warming oceans also affect the atmosphere above them by changing the way in which air moves, especially during storms. Warmer air can hold more moisture and may form larger clouds, which can lead to more frequent and severe rainfall. And warmer air can hold more carbon dioxide, which is known to accelerate global warming.

    All of these changes make climate change a serious concern for marine life, from large fish to microscopic cyanobacteria. As the climate changes, they will have to find new places to live. And that will put them under pressure to survive, whether it’s from overfishing or pollution.

    Scientists are studying how ocean currents are shifting, which will likely have a knock-on effect on the weather and climate. In particular, scientists are watching for what happens when the cold, salty, dense water of the North Atlantic sinks further into the depths because of melting ice. This could change the direction of currents, and the overall system that influences everything from people’s daily commutes to where whales migrate. NASA satellites are monitoring the ocean’s surface currents and deep currents to help understand how this complex system works. You can test your knowledge by playing Go With the Flow, an interactive ocean exploration game.

    El Nino and La Nina

    The overall trend of global sea levels is affected by two opposing climate patterns known as El Nino and La Nina, which occur at irregular intervals over a period of 2-7 years. These climate patterns affect global weather conditions and ocean currents, which in turn impact the ebb and flow of sea level.

    An El Nino occurs when unusually warm water occurs in the equatorial Pacific, with a corresponding eastward shift of tropical precipitation. When the opposite pattern, known as La Nina, occurs, colder water forms in the equatorial Pacific with a corresponding westward shift of precipitation. These patterns are part of the larger phenomenon known as the Southern Oscillation.

    During an El Nino, strong trade winds diminish or cease entirely, which reduces the upwelling of cold nutrient-rich waters off the coast of Asia. This causes the phytoplankton population to decrease and eventually trickles up the food chain to affect marine species, including fish.

    El Nino episodes also contribute to wetter than normal winter and spring weather in the Deep South by redistributing moisture from the Gulf of Mexico to the region. These episodes typically produce more F2 and greater tornado outbreaks over the Deep South than would normally be expected.

    During a La Nina, trade winds pick up, which results in the jet stream being placed further north. This brings colder and stormier weather to central North America, while the Deep South experiences wetter than normal weather. This weather pattern also inhibits the development of Atlantic hurricanes during the peak of the hurricane season, sparing coastal states from their associated storm damage.

    Subsidence

    It’s well-known that climate change is contributing to sea level rise, but less well-known that the land itself is also sinking in many coastal cities. This is a significant problem because the combination of rising seas and sinking land makes it more likely that people will be living in or near flood zones, and it’s often impossible to protect those people against flooding and other hazards.

    Land subsidence is caused by a number of factors, including the natural slowing down of soil particles as they are compacted, as well as tectonic movement. However, the rate at which land sinks is also influenced by human activities such as mining and groundwater pumping. In particular, rapid population growth can lead to a rapid increase in the rate at which land is sinking, especially if it happens near river deltas and coastal areas. This is because those areas have deposits of river sediment that can be accelerated by urban development and groundwater pumping.

    Scientists are able to track global land subsidence by using satellites, tide gauges, and a network of GPS sensors around the world. This allows scientists to calculate the average speed at which land is moving up and down. This data is used to create maps showing the current rates of sea level rise and land subsidence. This information is then combined with a map of the world’s coastline to show how much land is at risk of being underwater by 2100.

    Sea levels are currently rising due to melting glaciers and ice sheets, as well as a thermal expansion of the ocean water. These processes will continue to occur over the course of centuries and millennia, but they are being accelerated by human activity. As a result, sea levels will likely rise for several decades at a faster rate than they would have without that acceleration.

    Managing subsidence is an important part of reducing the threat to people living in coastal cities, as it can reduce the relative sea level rise by up to 20 mm per year, and this may make more of a difference in reducing the exposure of coastal populations than any other method of lowering sea levels over the next 30 years.

  • Countries Affected by Rising Sea Levels

    Countries Affected by Rising Sea Levels

    Several countries are currently experiencing the effects of rising sea levels. This includes Kabul and surrounding areas in Afghanistan, New York City, and Miami Beach. These countries are all undergoing floods and atolls are also in danger. In addition, there are conflicting claims to the ocean’s resources and rights.

    Flooding in Kabul and surrounding regions

    During the past 30 years, the water supply in Afghanistan has suffered from the effects of drought, flooding, and desertification. These effects are due to the combination of climatic changes, a decrease in rainfall, and the deforestation of land. It is essential to find ways to preserve the river water for the future.

    The Kabul River, which forms part of the Kabul River System, rises in the mountains of central Afghanistan. It flows north to Pakistan and eventually joins the Indus River near Attock. The water of the Kabul River supports over 300,000 ha of intensively irrigated areas in Afghanistan. During recent drought years, the Kabul River has run dry several times.

    The Kabul River has a flow of 33 to 460 m3/s. However, this is not enough water to reach the aforementioned Amu Darya. In fact, all other rivers in northern Afghanistan have insufficient water to make it to the Amu Darya. The Kunar River, a tributary of the Kabul, provides much of the flow in lower Kabul.

    Flooding in New York City and Miami Beach

    During the last century, the global mean sea level has increased by about 8-9 inches. That’s not much, but it’s up from about 0.06 inches per year in the early part of the century. And that rate has accelerated. It has jumped to 0.14 inches per year since 2006.

    A report by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) found that in the next 30 years, the seas in the United States will rise by about 10 inches. And that means coastal flooding is going to happen.

    And that’s bad news, especially in places like New York City and Miami Beach. These cities are in coastal Florida, and the sea level rise there is a real threat to their neighborhoods.

    There is also the problem of the storm surge. When a hurricane hits, the seas rise, and the surge travels inland. It can damage homes and businesses. It’s worse when the storm is a bigger storm with stronger winds.

    Flooding in Atolls

    Coastal regions that are exposed to sea level rise face a high risk of storms and floods. These events can be damaging to buildings, crops, and other infrastructure. The risk is particularly high when a large storm or tidal flood occurs. These events can also contaminate freshwater reserves and lead to salt water intrusion. Coastal defenses, including mangroves, can prevent wave overwash.

    Sea level rise is a significant stressor for coastal island nations. It has been estimated that global sea levels will increase by 3 to 4 millimeters per year over the next couple of decades. This is expected to increase the frequency and severity of coastal flooding. It also has the potential to make many islands uninhabitable by 2050.

    Among the coastal regions that are most sensitive to climate change are coral atoll islands. These atolls are small areas of land that sit a few metres above sea level. In recent years, coral atolls have grown larger in size. However, they have also remained stable.

    Conflicting claims to ocean resources and rights

    Maritime boundary disputes are becoming increasingly important for states in the 21st century. They are not simply political issues, but often reflect locality-specific realities, worldviews, and management regimes.

    This article explores transformations in ocean conflict, focusing on four issue areas: maritime spatial planning, conflicting claims to ocean resources, rights of countries affected by rising sea levels, and ocean reconciliation. It suggests that this problem is unlikely to be resolved until radical ocean governance is applied.

    These changes are driven by exogenous forces such as climate change, blue growth, and the rush to capitalize on ocean resources. These factors challenge existing management regimes and lead to conflicting claims by nations. The resulting ocean conflict thwarts efforts to implement the Agenda 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

    These changes are also driven by locality-specific dynamics such as state-initiated marine spatial planning and socio-environmental interactions. Conflicts may also flare up after big traumatic events. In the case of the South China Sea, tensions are strained between China and Vietnam.

  • Can We Stop the Deserts From Spreading?

    Can We Stop the Deserts From Spreading?

    Despite the fact that the continent of North America is a relatively flat area, there are still regions that are prone to deserts. These regions are known as the Interior, Coastal, Subtropical, and Polar regions. These regions are all very different from each other, and it is important to understand them in order to properly combat the spread of deserts.

    Subtropical

    Having a dry climate has been an enduring problem for humanity, but can we stop them from spreading? Scientists from UMD and MIT studied the movement of the planet’s arid zones and found that there is a direct link between the expansion of arid zones and the climate change we’re experiencing. It’s also worth noting that the results of the study may have important implications for other deserts as well.

    For example, researchers found that dry air is moving poleward from the south, and could soon make its way to the Alps and the Mediterranean. This could lead to less snowfall in the Alps, and could even cut winter rain in the Mediterranean.

    Another interesting discovery is that the Sahara’s expansion has actually increased its average seasonal area. The Sahara is one of the driest places on the planet. The expansion is believed to be caused by the Hadley circulation, a circulation pattern that sends dry air northward from the south and produces downpours. The largest expansion of the Sahara occurred in summer, with the largest expansion being 16 percent.

    The study was also able to show that the odometer may be the most important metric to measure the arid zone’s effect on climate. Researchers used satellite measurements to look at the lower atmosphere, and found that the smallest temperature change was in the tiniest molecule. These findings suggest that global warming may be behind the changes.

    Coastal

    Various nations are working on ways to slow the spread of deserts. These include efforts to conserve water, enhance biodiversity, and improve crop yields. The Great Green Wall, a project begun in 2007 in the deserts of Senegal and Djibouti, was intended to form a natural barrier to the Sahara. But it failed to live up to its promise.

    One of the more effective attempts to stop the spread of deserts is to create windbreaks using trees. These trees not only break the wind force, but also anchor the soil. This is a particularly important consideration in regions where soil compaction prevents water from soaking into the ground.

    Another is the invention of the solar panel, which spares villagers from having to pay more for water in the desert. It can pump water from a communal well and spares the farmers from having to buy expensive pumps for their farm.

    The world’s largest sand desert is the Sahara Desert. It has been expanding at an accelerated rate since the 1950s, and it’s been estimated that over 300 million metric tons of topsoil are being lost each year. However, in order to fully reclaim sand dunes for agricultural purposes, it will likely require a significant amount of research and development.

    In the deserts of Western China, Central Asia and even the Middle East, the number of people living in areas without adequate rainfall is on the rise. The global weather cycle is responsible for some of these changes. In some regions, the drought-prone sands of the Sahara are threatening to overwhelm the indigenous grassland habitats.

    Rain shadow

    Whenever air moves over a mountain range, a rain shadow can form. This phenomenon explains why some areas are wet while others are dry. Depending on the region, rain shadows can be extremely strong or weak.

    Rain shadows are formed because mountain ranges act as barriers to airflow. The slopes of these mountains push clouds up into colder air, resulting in less rainfall on the other side. Some famous deserts are located on the leeward side of mountains.

    Mountain ranges also block sub-tropical trade winds, which originate in the southern hemisphere. These winds originate from the Pacific Ocean and cool down over the mountains. This causes moisture to be lost in the form of precipitation, condensation, and heat loss.

    Rain shadows can also be formed along coastlines where cold oceanic upwellings cause moisture loss. Deserts can also form in inland regions far from coasts. The Andes Mountains in South America form a rain shadow, resulting in a drier climate. Similarly, mountains in the Himalayas in Asia cause a drier climate. The Gobi Desert in Mongolia is another example of rain shadows.

    Rain shadows can also occur on the side of mountains near the Appalachian Mountains, the Rocky Mountains, and other prominent ranges. Some mountains can have rain shadows that extend for hundreds of miles. The effect can be even more pronounced if the mountain range is tall.

    Interior

    Unlikely to behold, the sun and moon may have ejected their ilks to the dust bins o’ the mist. One thing to watch out for is the aforementioned sands. To be sure, if you have the foresight to not have been sand blasted off your digits, you are out of luck. The following are a few notable exceptions. Those aforementioned sand savors may be the deeds to come, a boozed up doodoo in your near future. A good way to keep your sanity intact is to not engage in such activities. The best way to do this is to make the effort a top priority.

    Polar

    During the last two decades, we’ve witnessed a massive rate of desertification across the globe. While this phenomenon is not new, it’s become a global threat. It’s estimated that there are currently over six million square kilometers of the world’s surface that are unsuitable for farming. It is also estimated that, globally, there are over a billion people living in areas of low or no rainfall.

    The question is, how can we prevent desertification from spreading like the plague? Fortunately, there are a number of measures we can take to improve the situation. The first is to prevent desertification from occurring in the first place. This requires a concerted effort on the part of national governments, businesses and individuals. In a bid to curb the spread of the desert, countries across the globe have launched initiatives to prevent this phenomenon from reoccurring.

    The Sahara, in particular, is a major source of concern. During the last two decades, the desert has pushed southward by more than a hundred kilometers. While the Sahara isn’t yet affecting the rest of Africa, it’s definitely a threat to the continent’s livelihoods.

    The Gobi Desert, on the other hand, has already swallowed up whole villages. It is also the driest place on Earth. In addition to destroying habitat, it also forces thousands of people to relocate. In fact, it is the fastest growing desert on Earth.

    Reforestation

    Almost a third of the Earth’s surface is now desert. The Gobi Desert, located in northwest China, is the fastest growing desert on the planet. It consumes grasslands and forces thousands of people to move out of their villages. Its size is already 1.2 million square kilometers.

    The Sahel, in the western part of Africa, is turning into a desert. The region is arid and drought is accelerating the desertification process. A group of 21 African nations has launched a plan to combat desertification and improve lives in the Sahel.

    The Great Green Wall is an ambitious project to restore land. It would stretch across Africa, from Senegal to Djibouti, and would create an 8,000-kilometer mosaic of vegetation. The plan also aims to create 10 million jobs in rural areas.

    The project has received a boost from the World Bank. It is estimated that planting 2 billion acres of trees would reduce carbon dioxide emissions by two-thirds. This will increase rainfall and recharge aquifers. In addition, vegetation can absorb water and retain it in the soil. Planting trees is one of the many steps to combat desertification.

    The Sahel region is the most vulnerable to desertification. It has a very rocky surface, and it is prone to frequent and severe droughts. It has been turned into a desert by heavy grazing by livestock. Planting trees will improve the water table. Planting trees also can help reduce runoff.

  • Rising Sea Levels and Bangladesh’s Economy

    Rising Sea Levels and Bangladesh’s Economy

    Despite the fact that rising sea levels threaten Bangladesh’s economy, there is a way to mitigate this effect. It is called Climate Prosperity. This plan is being carried out by the government of Bangladesh in order to help the country develop in a more environmentally friendly way.

    Global sea levels have risen by about 20 cms (8 inches) since 1900

    During the last hundred years, the global mean sea level has risen by about 20 cms (8 inches). It’s not as impressive a figure as it sounds. However, in the last twenty years, the rate has increased.

    One of the factors responsible for the sea level increase is the thermal expansion of ocean water. In addition, land based ice is melting due to global warming. Water is also being pumped out of groundwater aquifers.

    Another factor is land subsidence. This is caused by land movements and the withdrawal of fossil fuels. The amount of sea level rise will differ from region to region due to local weather, land movement, and tides.

    Another factor is the melting of the Greenland ice sheet. This has contributed to sea level rise since 1990. It’s likely that the amount of sea level rise will be higher in some parts of the United States than in others.

    The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has issued a report that says human activity has been responsible for at least half of climate change during the last half century. It also says that global mean sea level could rise 1.1 meters above pre-industrial values by 2100.

    The blue line on the Earth map shows that sea level has risen by about 20 cms since 1900. It’s not as impressive a figure compared to the sea level changes of the past, but it’s still a very important fact.

    However, the most important factor in sea level is not the sea level itself, but rather the land subsidence that has occurred. There are many other factors that have caused sea level to rise, but this is one of the most important.

    Lower Ninth Ward is particularly vulnerable to sea level rise

    Coastal floods are regarded as the most dangerous natural disasters. Sea level rise is expected to increase the frequency and magnitude of floods. It will also affect the population living along the coasts. These changes will have a significant impact on the coastal ecosystem as a whole.

    The Coastal City Flood Vulnerability Index (CCFVI) provides insights into the future 2100 total flood risk on a coastal city scale. The CCFVI is a composite measure of three main aspects of a coastal city’s water drainage system. The indicator is also a measure of resilience.

    A CCFVI has a large role to play in helping city planners and policymakers to better understand flood risks and develop more effective strategies to mitigate them. To achieve the desired results, a multidisciplinary team should be consulted to discuss the most important factors to consider. In addition, it should also be considered in conjunction with other decision-making tools such as expert judgment and participatory methods with the local community.

    A CCFVI can also be used to identify trends in the development of an urban area. This is particularly important in the wake of hurricanes, where flooding is a constant threat to low-lying coastal communities. In addition, it can inform local governments about the need to re-engineer their flood protection and drainage systems.

    There are more than nine coastal cities studied in this study. Each city was evaluated for the CCFVI and a number of other metrics pertaining to the same. Those selected are ranked in order of least to most vulnerable. The most vulnerable of these cities is Dhaka. The second most vulnerable is Calcutta. Those two cities will increase their respective vulnerabilities by a whopping 1.7, and 1.1, by 2100, respectively.

    Mangroves are halophytes trees that grow in saline water

    Besides being a source of salt, mangroves provide habitat for various species of wildlife. They are important sources of algae and fruit for coastal communities. They also help reduce wave energy. They are also spawning grounds for many ocean bound fish. They reduce flood risks for 15 million people each year. They also play an important role in conserving coastal areas.

    Mangroves grow in intertidal areas of tropical coastlines. These areas have low-oxygen conditions. Their root systems are unique. The outermost layer of the mangrove root has three parts. Each part has different morphologies.

    The outermost layer contains a porous membrane with pore sizes of hundreds of nanometers. These pores are irregularly distributed. They are used to filter out solutes. However, continuous water filtration can foul the membrane.

    Another layer of the mangrove root consists of tens of nanometer-scale porous structures. These structures help the root to prevent Na+ ions from entering xylem vessels. They also block the passage of apoplastic bypass ions.

    In addition to these specialized root systems, mangroves are also able to grow in freshwater. However, the mangrove’s ability to grow in freshwater is limited by competition from other plant species. This makes it difficult for the plant to grow in freshwater permanently.

    The mangrove’s morphological structure has evolved to withstand harsh environmental conditions. These plants are able to survive in low oxygen conditions, and they have special leaves to filter out salt from the water. They also have stilt roots that penetrate the soil away from the main stem. The stilt roots are able to act as breathing roots.

    The mangrove’s ability to filter salt out of sea water is important for the survival of the plant. In addition, the plants can help to desalinate high concentrations of saline water. In this way, they can help to restore saline soils.

    Climate prosperity plan to mitigate economic effects of global warming on Bangladesh’s economy

    During the 26th UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) in Glasgow, Scotland, Bangladesh is expected to present its “Climate Prosperity Plan” to the international community. The plan aims to reduce the impacts of global warming on the country’s economy. It also encourages other vulnerable countries to develop their own plans.

    The plan will seek to reduce the economic impacts of global warming on Bangladesh by promoting renewable energy, investing in agriculture, and developing wind farms along the coast. It also envisions building more resilient agriculture and restoring mangrove forests to protect the country’s coast. In addition, it will empower banks to offer favorable terms to projects that use fossil fuel-free energy.

    Bangladesh’s economy is expected to increase by a factor of two by 2030, but climate change could cause it to reverse that trend. According to the sixth assessment report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, global warming of 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels would result in longer warm seasons and more intense heat events. The impacts would also affect food security in many regions. In addition, agriculture in Bangladesh and neighboring countries such as Pakistan could lose up to 50% of their crop yields by the end of the century.

    Bangladesh is considered to be the most vulnerable to climate change. Its southern coastal area is particularly vulnerable to the ill effects of global climate. In addition, the country is at risk of flooding and displacement due to cyclones.

    The country’s government has spent about two billion dollars annually on climate change adaptation measures. However, it is still unable to reduce its emissions with limited international support. Its emissions are estimated at 0.3 tons of carbon dioxide per person per year.

    Growing produce on floating rafts as a response to rising sea levels

    Floating farms are an important tool for farmers in Bangladesh, as they enable them to grow food year round. They also provide an additional source of physical and financial sustenance during floods. This means that they can continue to provide food for their families in an area where conventional farming is unprofitable.

    The Bangladesh government is reviving this traditional form of farming as a means of reducing climate change vulnerability. Floating farms are also considered a community initiative because they allow people to grow food during a time when flooding is prevalent.

    The United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization (UN FAO) considers these floating gardens to be globally important agricultural heritage systems. Floating rafts provide farmers with a secure platform for planting vegetable and fruit seedlings.

    The Pirojpur district in southwestern Bangladesh is an example of a community that has depended on these floating gardens for generations. Farmers in the area have turned their agricultural land into a floating garden, planting fruit and vegetables on rafts made from water hyacinth stalks. This method of farming is called baira in Bangladesh.

    Currently, 6,000 subsistence growers are already using these rafts to grow vegetables. According to agricultural experts, these rafts are adaptable to floods and can provide a more reliable method of growing crops.

    The Bangladesh government recently included an expansion of floating agriculture in its climate change adaptation strategy. In addition, various NGOs have established floating agriculture projects in Bangladesh.

    Researchers at the University of Ohio are also exploring the possibility of other countries turning to rafts in response to rising sea levels. They believe that it could be a crucial technique for local families to rely on in the future.

  • Fiji Climate Change Impacts

    Fiji Climate Change Impacts

    Having travelled around Fiji, it is clear that climate change is affecting the island nation. This is evident in the occurrence of droughts, floods, coral bleaching and coastal erosion. Some of these impacts are also due to the increased global temperature. These changes are not just affecting the country itself, but also other regions of the world.

    Global temperature keeps rising despite natural variability

    Despite the natural variability of climate, global average temperatures have continued to rise. Since the late 19th century, global average surface air temperatures have increased by 0.8degC per decade. This rate is accelerating.

    Global warming is driven by human activities, including deforestation, agricultural and industrial practices, and burning fossil fuels. Climate change also affects precipitation and other aspects of the climate system. Consequences include intense droughts, floods, and forest fires. Among other things, higher temperatures mean more ice melting and higher sea levels.

    In fact, all model projections show that Earth will continue to warm over the next few centuries. If we continue to burn fossil fuels at the same rate, we will warm by an additional 3.2degC by the end of this century. The Paris Agreement seeks to hold the rise in global average temperature to no more than 1.5degC.

    This is a challenge. Global temperature is a combination of long-term warming due to greenhouse gas (GHG) warming, and natural variability. Natural variability can be used to modulate the effects of the underlying temperature trend.

    During the past century, global average surface air temperatures have increased 0.6degC per decade. Global temperature has also increased slightly faster over the oceans than over land.

    Flooding

    During the flood of 2012, the Nadi River broke its banks and inundated Nadi Town, which is the main commercial centre. This event was considered the worst flood event in Fiji in decades. It caused substantial financial loss to the government. In total, initial assessments of the flood damages totaled F$71 million.

    The government of Fiji has implemented projects designed to increase resilience. The floods have not only cost Fiji a staggering amount of money, but also the lives of four people. These events have sparked debate about the scale of the threat of climate change in Fiji.

    As the Pacific Islands are increasingly urbanizing, urbanization is also increasing the risk of flooding. Fiji has become the first Pacific island nation to relocate a community to higher ground because of sea level rise. A total of six villages have moved or plan to relocate with government support.

    The Government of Fiji also set up a Community Educators Network Training program, which has increased community organisation and awareness of coastal and marine threats. The program also trains community members on conservation and resource management practices.

    The Government of Fiji has also established a One Pacific Program, which collects climate data for 14 Pacific Island nations. The program also develops prediction services and multi-hazard monitoring systems.

    Drought

    Coastal communities are the most vulnerable to multiple hazards. Droughts affect agriculture, infrastructure, housing and social cohesion. Understanding the risks is crucial for risk reduction planning.

    In Fiji, the agricultural sector is an important source of livelihood. The country has been impacted by unusual climatic conditions over the last decades. As a result, Fiji must respond to the impacts of climate change. The government has taken action to help farmers deal with the adverse weather conditions. These include adaptation programs, such as water conservation, resilient varieties, and water-saving technologies.

    Climate change is expected to intensify the seasonal cycle, leading to increasing droughts in Pacific islands. In addition, climate change is predicted to cause an increase in vector-borne diseases. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has helped Fiji bring adaptation programs to farmers and other individuals.

    Fiji’s climatic conditions have become more extreme over the past few years. The drought that affected the country in 1998 caused an estimated US$63 million in losses to the agricultural sector. In addition, there were over 28,000 dengue cases reported.

    Aside from agriculture, coastal communities are vulnerable to floods and other disasters. As a result, the Government has introduced a Crop Rehabilitation Programme at a cost of US$22 million. It has also invested in solar-powered water systems on outer islands, encouraging local residents to conserve water.

    Coastal erosion

    Coastal erosion is an ongoing problem for many Pacific island nations. The sea level is rising and exposing large areas to erosion. In Fiji, the coastal erosion impacts of climate change have affected low-lying villages, and some communities have already relocated. There are also plans to relocate more villages.

    Relocating is difficult for Fijians who have lost their homes to coastal erosion. They are also exposed to the risks of cyclones and extreme weather events. Despite this, the Fijian government has vowed to relocate more communities over the next decade. It has also offered to resettle other low-lying Pacific nations. However, the country lacks criteria for when and where to abandon homes. The IPCC predicted a significant rise in human displacement in the coming decades.

    Coastal erosion impacts of climate change in Fiji include increased sea surface temperatures, saltwater intrusion, destruction of sea walls, coastal flooding, and erosion. These impacts have impacted the environment, crop production, and coastal environments. These changes are also affecting the mental health of residents. They are experiencing grief, loss of place attachment, and perceived environmental changes.

    Fijians are concerned about their future as well as their livelihoods. The recent destruction caused by Cyclone Winston, which cut off 80 percent of the country’s power supply, was a stark reminder of the effects of climate change. Many Fijians understand that climate change is the primary driver of local environmental changes.

    Coral bleaching

    During a recent visit to Fiji, Newsround found that the impacts of climate change on coral reefs are devastating to local communities. A number of reefs in the country were affected by high temperatures and bleaching. Some reefs suffered from more than 60 percent bleaching, while others had only a small impact.

    Corals have a deep relationship with algae, and both play a vital role in the formation of coral reefs. Algae helps coral polyps survive by providing nutrition. Without algae, coral polyps weaken and eventually die. However, after they die, the algae take over and grow over the dead coral.

    Coral reefs around the world are in danger. High seawater temperatures disrupt the symbiosis between the corals and algae. When the seawater temperature rises, the coral polyps expel algae, leaving the reef looking bleached.

    The Global Coral Reef Alliance recently announced that there has been unprecedented coral beaching in the South Pacific. The reefs in Fiji and the Cook Islands have been particularly hit by high temperatures, while the reefs in Samoa and New Caledonia were also affected.

    The Global Fund for Coral Reefs has announced a plan to raise money for stronger protection of the world’s reefs. The fund is backed by UN agencies and is designed to promote businesses that don’t harm coral.

    Adaptation plans to implement in animal production sectors

    Adaptation plans to implement in Fiji climate change impacts are important for farmers to adapt to the changes. This includes adapting to changing rainfall patterns and feeding periods, as well as reducing building in flood zones. This increases productivity and economic activity.

    The National Climate Change Adaptation Strategy (NCCAS) provides adaptation actions for land-based resources in Fiji. It strongly advocates the integration of climate change issues into all national policies. It includes sector adaptation matrices for agriculture, water, and land use. It identifies current climate change projects in Fiji, and provides a list of the projects receiving financial support.

    The Fiji National Climate Change Policy is a blueprint for protecting vulnerable communities from climate change impacts. It is located in the Pacific Ocean and consists of 330 islands. The policy identifies key elements that need to be considered to reduce the impacts of climate change on human health. It was developed by the Climate Change Unit, which was established within the Department of Environment in 2009. It has since moved to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

    Fiji is one of the most vulnerable Pacific Island nations. The country has a high poverty rate and has experienced rapid urban migration. Rapid urbanisation can exacerbate water-borne disease and food insecurity. Insufficiently designed housing and urban infrastructure contribute to these problems. The Fijian government is attempting to secure funding to implement climate change projects.

    Pacific Women Shaping Pacific Development support to the Shifting the Power Coalition

    Founded in 2016, the Shifting the Power Coalition is a feminist coalition of women’s organisations. The Coalition is led by Pacific women and aims to increase their leadership and influence in the region. The Coalition includes members from six countries, including Vanuatu, Papua New Guinea, Tonga and Australia. The Coalition’s aims include gender equality, disaster preparedness and response, and climate change adaptation.

    The Pacific Women Shaping Pacific Development programme is funded by the Australian government, and aims to increase political opportunities for women in 14 Pacific Islands Forum countries. The programme is also supported by the Pacific Women Support Unit, based in Suva, Fiji. The unit provides logistical and technical support to DFAT, and assists with direction setting activities. The unit also conducts knowledge sharing events. The Coalition’s PowerShift Fund will support the development of new programming and improve the internal governance of the Coalition.

    The Shifting the Power Coalition is led by diverse Pacific women. It has a network of 13 partner organisations. Members include ActionAid Australia, the Young Women Christian Association of Samoa, the YWCA of Papua New Guinea, the Pacific Disability Forum, the Nazareth Centre for Rehabilitation, Vois Blong Mere Solomon Islands, and Vanu Young Women for Change.

  • How Does Climate Change Affect the Environment?

    How Does Climate Change Affect the Environment?

    Almost every day, there are new scientific discoveries that help us understand the way climate change affects the environment. It affects the lives of people, animals, and the environment itself. These effects range from short-term to long-term, and can have an effect on water resources, agriculture, and ecosystems.

    Long-term effects

    Among the long-term effects of climate change on the environment are changes in land and sea levels, as well as changes in weather patterns, air quality, and wildlife habitats. These changes are resulting in a wide range of health impacts. These impacts depend on the extent to which people are able to adapt to the changing climate, as well as on the rates of change.

    As climate changes, more people are at risk from disease and insect-borne diseases. These impacts are expected to increase in severity and frequency. The changes also increase the risk of pest outbreaks and invasive species.

    Climate change affects air quality, as warmer temperatures cause more ozone smog. These changes increase the risk of asthma attacks and other respiratory illnesses.

    Sea levels are rising because of melting glaciers and ice sheets. This is putting many coastal habitats at risk of erosion and storm surge. This means that many people living near coastlines will have to relocate.

    Water supplies are also under threat, as more droughts and floods occur. This will affect food production. In some areas, droughts can cause a drop in crop yields. This can cause food scarcity, which can be a hardship for people.

    Sea level rise would erode coastal habitats, devastate low-lying regions, and put coastal cities at risk of erosion. Flooding will cause damage to infrastructure, leading to disease spread. This can also cause damage to coral reefs, shellfish, and other marine life.

    The number of wildfires is also increasing. These wildfires cause unhealthy air pollutants and increase the risk of pre-existing illnesses. As temperature increases, the amount of wildfire smoke is also increasing, causing an increase in asthma attacks.

    Impacts on vulnerable groups

    Across the United States, vulnerable groups are affected by climate change in several ways. They are especially vulnerable to extreme weather. These impacts affect food security and can increase the risk of infectious diseases and malaria. The climate impacts are also associated with physical stress and mental health effects.

    A recent CDC study found that some populations are more vulnerable than others. This is due to differences in their exposures to climate-related hazards and their adaptive capacity. For example, urban areas have higher temperatures, while suburban areas lack green space. In addition, some groups have more stressors, both related to climate and non-climate factors.

    For example, people living in flood plains are more likely to experience extreme weather and to be exposed to social stressors. Children are also susceptible to climate-related health effects. This is due to their developing bodies and immune systems.

    The Vulnerability Mapping Tool (VMT) provides maps of climate hazards and data on the factors that increase resilience. It is an important tool for preparing for health threats. It also provides climate-related health surveillance data. It is also useful for assessing social disparities in the aftermath of an event such as Hurricane Katrina.

    Another study conducted by the EPA examined the future impacts of climate change on six populations in the United States. These populations are socially vulnerable, including people with pre-existing medical conditions and low-income communities. It also found that people of color are more vulnerable to climate change impacts.

    In the United States, vulnerable groups include low-income populations, immigrants, some communities of color, children, day laborers, and older adults. It also found that people living in upper stories of buildings are more vulnerable to climate change impacts.

    Impacts on ecosystems and organisms

    Species are responding to the effects of climate change in many ways. They can change their geographic distributions, increase their physiological stress, and experience population declines. In some cases, these changes can be so severe that a species is threatened with extinction.

    These ecosystem responses are based on the changes in temperature, water balance, and precipitation patterns. They are also driven by the changes in atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations. Climate change is rearranging ecosystems in unexpected ways.

    Impacts on ecosystems are likely to increase in the coming decades. However, not all ecosystems will be affected in the same way. In addition, climate change impacts can be very difficult to quantify because of changes in ecosystem processes.

    Climate change is altering terrestrial and coastal marine ecosystems. These impacts are driving large-scale shifts in species abundance. They are also altering the timing of critical biological events. This is particularly important for habitats.

    Other impacts of climate change on ecosystems include a loss of iconic species, a decrease in water supply, and distorted rhythms of nature. These changes affect ecosystems’ ability to regulate water flows, improve water quality, and provide important ecosystem services.

    In addition, changes in climate change can affect the distribution of major vegetation types. In the western United States, these changes may include loss of deciduous forests and increased migration of species up mountain slopes.

    In addition, climate change is altering the timing of water flow. This affects ecosystems’ ability to regulate water flows and provide water for aquatic plant habitat.

    Climate change also is driving a large increase in ocean acidification. This is occurring because of anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions. It is also causing sea level to rise.

    Impacts on water resources

    Increasing temperatures, decreasing precipitation and increasing evaporation are all expected to have impacts on water resources. These impacts are expected to vary by region. Some regions will experience reduced runoff, while others will experience increased runoff. In addition, climate change will cause water to be more concentrated and will affect water quality.

    The effects of climate change are expected to be most pronounced in areas with limited water resources. This is because more rain will fall than the soil can absorb, and the excess runoff will pollute water resources.

    In addition to increased evaporation, climate change is expected to increase the intensity and frequency of rainfall. This will have impacts on water quantity, water quality, and nutrient cycling.

    Water scarcity is already a problem in many parts of the world. This is caused by flooding and droughts. A shortage of water can also lead to conflicts over water resources. Water markets can help diffuse these conflicts.

    Climate change is expected to increase the risk of droughts and summer water shortages. A more frequent drought will lead to agricultural droughts and increased costs for wildfire control and lost timber. As water resources become more scarce, there will be more pressure to shift supplies to higher-value uses.

    Climate change will also affect the timing of stream flows. For example, winter precipitation is expected to increase while spring and summer precipitation will decrease. This could lead to reduced stream flow in spring and summer. In addition, increased evaporation rates will reduce water supplies in many regions.

    Climate change will also increase the risk of flooding. A heavy rain event can wash away pollutants and animal waste, and the excess runoff will pollute the water resource.

    Impacts on agriculture

    Increasing temperatures and water availability will have significant impacts on agriculture. Some areas are projected to experience longer and shorter droughts, while others will face more frequent and intense floods. Other climate impacts include changing seasons, changing pest distribution, and shifts in the range of invasive species.

    Farmers will need to adjust their practices to cope with changing climates. For instance, farmers can adopt crop varieties that are better adapted to changing weather patterns. They can also adjust sowing and planting dates to match changes in temperature and rainfall.

    Warmer climates will increase the number of frost-free days. This will benefit crops grown in warmer areas, but will also affect tree fruit crops, which are vulnerable to late frosts during flowering.

    Increased temperatures will also increase the number of heat waves. This will disrupt the growth of plants, affect crop yields, and result in lower productivity. Heat stress also has a negative impact on animals, especially livestock. This will lower fertility, cause fewer milk production, and make livestock less productive.

    Higher temperatures also promote the growth of weeds and pests. These may compete with crops for water and nutrients. They will also increase the pressure on farmers to use irrigation. Higher temperatures will also shorten the growing season in arid areas, reducing crop yields.

    Farmers may also need to invest in local capacity to deal with the impacts of climate change. For instance, they can invest in training farmers in new farming practices.

    Climate change will also have significant impacts on the distribution and transport of food. For instance, warmer water temperatures may shift the range of many fish species. This will negatively impact food quality and safety. It may also increase the incidence of diseases.

  • Consequences of Climate Change for Developing Countries

    Consequences of Climate Change for Developing Countries

    Developing countries are among the most threatened regions with the consequences of climate change. Limiting global temperature rise to 1.5degC would help us avoid the worst impacts.

    Mental health implications

    Several studies have found that climate change increases the risk of mental health disorders. This may be due to environmental factors such as air pollution, which has been linked to higher rates of respiratory illness. But researchers are still teasing out the exact role that polluted air plays in causing mental illness.

    Another study found that climate change increases the risk of suicide. Studies have also found that climate change increases the risk of depression. However, most research is focused on the physical sequelae of climate change. The physical sequelae of climate change are well documented.

    In addition, research has found that climate change is linked to other psychological sequelae. For example, studies have found that more people are experiencing PTSD after extreme weather events. This may be a result of climate change causing an increase in the incidence of anxiety and depression.

    Other research has found that climate change is linked to the increase in homicide-suicides. Researchers found that homicide-suicides increased following Hurricane Andrew in 1992. The increase in suicide was higher in northern communities with greater climate variability.

    In addition, people with pre-existing mental health conditions are more likely to experience climate distress. This is because climate change is expected to lead to increased mortality and illnesses related to extreme weather events.

    Climate change and mental health are not mutually exclusive, but they can be addressed through coordinated, collaborative efforts. There is a need for sustainable mental health care in developed nations, as well as in developing nations. The global climate community must address climate change and mental health together. This means addressing the social and economic inequities that can affect mental health.

    Understanding the mental health impacts of climate change can help health care professionals anticipate patterns of mental illness. This will enable them to enhance the mental health systems of affected communities. It can also help policymakers better plan for the mental health response to a climate crisis.

    Physical impacts

    Increasing temperatures, floods, droughts and other physical impacts of climate change are threatening the quality of life across the globe. These impacts are affecting the environment, agriculture and health. In this article, we explore the physical risks of climate change and identify factors that can help to manage and mitigate the risks.

    Human-made greenhouse gas emissions are contributing to the warming of the Earth’s climate. These emissions break up river ice earlier and cause the melting of glaciers and ice sheets. These changes in the climate have led to increased incidence and severity of wildfires. These wildfires destroy forests and create widespread ecosystem dieoffs.

    Agricultural production and food prices have been affected by climate change. Climate changes can also disrupt supply chains and affect the delivery of infrastructure services. In addition, changes in sea levels and the availability of water have also had a significant impact on the economy.

    As climate changes, social and economic inequities will be exacerbated. The poorest countries will be most vulnerable. They lack access to capital and public support to adapt.

    Coastal areas are at risk of sea level rise, erosion and flooding. In addition, sea life is threatened by oxygen declines. A shift in ocean currents may affect air quality and water supplies.

    The United States Gulf Coast is especially vulnerable to climate-related hazards. The region is expected to experience billions of dollars in additional disaster costs by 2030. The coastal states of Louisiana, Texas and Alabama are particularly vulnerable.

    Climate impacts will also have a significant effect on the health of the population. Studies indicate that climate change will increase morbidity and mortality from extreme weather events. Other infectious diseases will also increase.

    Adaptation behaviours

    Adaptation behaviours are an integral part of dealing with the negative consequences of climate change. The goal of adaptation is to minimise local risk of climate-related hazards. Some of the actions that can be taken include: clearing breeding sites, avoiding excess strain during heatwaves, and moving to an elevated area.

    Adaptation is complex and requires integrating biology concepts. It is also a subject that is still not well understood. Various studies have been conducted on the subject, but many have not yielded a solid conclusion. Some studies have focused on behaviour-specific variables while others have looked at general antecedents.

    In this study, we investigated the relationship between climate change perceptions and adaptation behaviours. We found that people who perceive climate change as a genuine threat are more likely to be engaged in some concrete adaptation measures. Specifically, we examined the relationship between perceptions of climate change and two adaptation behaviours: preparing for the worst of the worst, and reducing psychological distance from the situation.

    Among the most intriguing findings of our study is that people who perceive climate change as a threat are also more likely to engage in other measures. These include installing flood protection measures, investing in elevation, and planting plants around the home.

    The study was conducted in a medium-sized city in the north of the Netherlands. Participants were asked to fill out a questionnaire based on a number of items. For example, participants were asked to indicate whether they wanted to learn more about adaptation to heatwaves. They also were given a link to the UK National Health Service webpage on adaptation to heatwaves.

    The study did not find any strong correlation between perceptions of climate change and adaptation actions in a heatwave condition. However, perceptions of climate change did correlate with the presence of a rain barrel, a green front garden, and house insulation.

    Limiting global temperature rise to 1.5degC would help us avoid the worst climate impacts

    Having reached the Paris Agreement, governments have agreed to aim for an increase in global temperatures not higher than 1.5 degC. This goal is significantly beyond the Cancun Agreements’ limit of below two degrees. The goal is designed to help strengthen the global response to climate change.

    The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is preparing a report that will determine how to achieve this goal. It is expected to include heavy cuts in carbon emissions, as well as dietary changes, lifestyle changes, and a rapid transition to renewable energy. It will also identify a range of approaches to achieving this goal.

    Limiting warming to 1.5degC would significantly reduce the chances of some of the worst climate impacts. It would also cut carbon dioxide emissions by roughly half, reducing the chances of sea level rise by three-quarters and the likelihood of extreme heat waves by one-fourth. It would also reduce the risk of severe impacts on ocean carbon uptake, coastal protection, and bivalve fisheries.

    Limiting warming to 1.5 degC would reduce the risk of significant impacts on warm water corals. It also would help limit risks associated with flooding in major catchments around the world.

    There is no guarantee that the 1.5degC target will be reached. It is possible, though, if governments take the steps needed to limit global warming to this level. If the world did not take action, we may see average global temperatures reach 1.5degC above pre-industrial levels by 2052.

    The Paris Agreement calls for all countries to halve the emissions of greenhouse gases by 2030. This is likely to be a hard goal, however. The world’s greenhouse gas emissions have already risen by about 1% to 2% a year. There is little evidence that this trend is going to stop any time soon.

    Developing countries among the most severely threatened regions

    Developing countries are among the most vulnerable to climate change. They are most impacted by extreme weather events and their coping capacities are weak. Their ability to adapt is hampered by limited institutional capacity, financing and means to adapt.

    Developing countries are also among the most exposed to climate-sensitive health risks. For example, climate change increases the incidence of water-borne diseases. It can also cause population displacement and disruption of food systems. In addition, climate-related disasters threaten to overwhelm local health systems. Among the most vulnerable are children.

    For the first time, UNICEF has released the Children’s Climate Risk Index (CCRI), which ranks countries based on their exposure to climate and environmental shocks. Nearly half of the world’s children live in “extremely high-risk” countries, where they face multiple environmental shocks. In addition, their vulnerabilities are exacerbated by inadequate essential services and inadequate access to health care.

    Climate change is a major contributor to food insecurity. Increased heat stress can reduce crop productivity. In addition, increased pest damage can affect crop yields. Agricultural waste also degrades water resources. Climate change will also increase the incidence of vector-borne diseases. It can also increase the prevalence of zoonoses.

    Climate change interacts with other factors such as pandemics, unsustainable use of natural resources and rapid urbanization. The overlapping impacts of these events threaten development progress. In the Caribbean, for example, rainfall patterns have changed over the past three decades. Increasing temperatures are allowing malaria-carrying mosquitoes to survive at higher altitudes. This has exacerbated the human and economic toll of the pandemic.

    Climate change also contributes to rising sea levels, which presents risks to coastal populations and freshwater resources. Climate change also interacts with social inequalities.

  • The Threats of Climate Change and What We Can Do About Them

    The Threats of Climate Change and What We Can Do About Them

    Increasingly, it is becoming more and more obvious that our planet’s climate is changing. The consequences of this change are affecting the health of our environment and the well-being of all of us. And because of this, it is important for us to know more about the threats of climate change and what we can do about them.

    Health

    Various health threats associated with climate change are afoot, and many people are still unaware of the extent of those threats. Some examples include: climate-related crop failure, extreme weather events, water-borne diseases, infectious diseases, mental health, and security risks. A review of literature found that most health professionals are familiar with the concept of climate change, but many still lack an understanding of the implications for health.

    Although climate change may be responsible for some of the health problems that already exist, it will exacerbate others. It alters population movements, increases exposure to extreme weather events, and changes the environment’s suitability for infectious disease transmission. Some of these threats will be more severe for people with pre-existing medical conditions, and will be worse for vulnerable populations.

    Some examples of climate-related health hazard are: heat-related mortality, increased exposure to extreme weather events, and increasing ranges of mosquito-borne diseases. Fortunately, we can mitigate these risks. However, we need more research to understand what risks we can prevent and how best to predict them.

    The report also points to the importance of communication as a tool for climate change intervention. For example, providing normative information about climate change could lead to more people taking action to reduce emissions.

    Another good idea is to encourage more health professionals to engage in climate change advocacy. A recent survey found that more than 60 percent of respondents believed climate change will worsen health conditions. However, many reported that they did not feel that they were adequately prepared to take action. Some health professionals have taken steps to address this issue by providing additional training or by recruiting more volunteers to speak up for climate change policies.

    Climate change will also exacerbate existing health problems, such as increasing the risk of injury and premature death. Some examples include: increased exposure to heat, higher rates of respiratory illnesses, increased incidence of mental health disorders, and increased risk of malaria.

    The biggest challenge to overcoming health threats related to climate change is the lack of funding for research and policy. Countries must find ways to redirect resources toward health adaptation, and the world’s economies must change course to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement.

    National security

    Despite decades of denial, climate change is becoming an important security priority for the U.S. According to a recent report, the United States will soon face a host of threats associated with climate change. Among the risks are climate-driven migration, food and water shortages, and the risk of war.

    The Department of Defense has been working to integrate climate considerations into military operations. The Pentagon’s “Climate Change Adaptation Roadmap” released on 13 October outlines the department’s efforts to enhance resilience. It also notes that climate change has already begun to affect the Department’s mission readiness.

    The Defense Department’s new Arctic strategy identified climate change as an important priority. It also points out that sea level rise will exacerbate traditional security threats.

    The Pentagon also reported that changes in precipitation patterns will become an important risk. These changes are also predicted to cause a rise in extreme weather events. This may affect the readiness of U.S. military forces, particularly those in coastal regions.

    Another report, the Worldwide Threat Assessment, found that the effects of climate change will exacerbate social and economic instability. It also found that global ecological degradation will fuel economic distress. The Pentagon’s report also noted that a changing climate will amplify strategic competition in the Arctic.

    The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) also recently announced its own commitment to addressing climate change. DHS will focus on two major areas, sea level rise and other climate impacts.

    DHS will also focus on planning for the future, and on ensuring the safety and security of all communities. The department will also report on threats to water security and critical infrastructure. It should also test critical systems in a scenario-based stress environment.

    The Military Advisory Board, a group of highly respected retired generals and admirals, released a report on the risks of climate change. The group has faced its fair share of challenges in recent years, from a Soviet nuclear threat to extremism.

    The National Intelligence Estimate is a joint assessment of 18 intelligence agencies. It’s the first to explore the link between climate change and national security. The report found that “all risks are likely to increase as the climate changes.”

    Natural and human systems

    Coastal communities and other natural systems are vulnerable to climate change. This vulnerability varies depending on social, economic, and environmental factors. It is important to understand the broader system and how its components interact. This can inform evidence-based policymaking.

    A systems approach is a framework for understanding and managing environmental issues. It focuses on the complexity and dynamic nature of human-environment interactions. A systems approach also incorporates consideration of natural variability in climate. This is important because climate change affects human health in numerous ways.

    The Fourth National Climate Assessment has a chapter on health effects of climate change. The chapter describes how climate change impacts health and how people are disproportionately affected by climate-related health risks. It also describes health threats associated with extreme weather events. The report also highlights some of the most vulnerable groups, including low-income communities and older adults.

    A systems approach is important to consider because climate change is increasing the risk of droughts, floods, and food-borne infectious diseases. This increases the vulnerability of populations, including children, older adults, and communities of color. It also increases the risks of climate-sensitive diseases. It also adds to existing tensions.

    Climate change affects the natural hydrological cycle and the ability of the atmosphere to hold more water. These effects also increase risks of extinction for vulnerable species. It also increases the risk of floods, which can damage infrastructure and health care facilities. The rate at which sea level rises can affect coastal community vulnerability. The rate at which the Greenland Ice Sheet melts could raise global sea level up to 3 meters over the next 1,000 years.

    This research is important to understanding how to better manage coastal communities and other natural systems. Research is needed to identify redundant systems, as well as to identify more resilient materials. A systems approach can also provide a new way of thinking about environmental issues.

    The United States Global Change Research Program (USGCRP) marshals resources across participating agencies and coordinates similar efforts in other nations. It has developed a research program on interconnected systems, which provides a framework for studying the relationship between natural and human systems.

    Insurers’ responsibilities

    Increasingly, climate change is affecting the insurance industry. Insurers need to understand the risk associated with climate change and use this knowledge to help their organizations adapt. Insurers also need to manage climate-related liabilities in their investment portfolios.

    Insurers can take steps to mitigate climate-related risks, such as developing new products, increasing transition risk, and developing new ways to protect businesses and communities from systemic catastrophes. These actions will help insurers develop a strong and stable market.

    Climate-related risks can affect insurers’ underwriting and pricing models. Frequent catastrophic events can make insuring risk unfeasible, and can threaten insurers’ business models. Insurers must also assess and monitor their exposure to climate-related risks, and stress-test their portfolios. Insurers must demonstrate to regulators that they are ready to mitigate climate-related risks.

    A number of state regulators are watching climate-related risks closely. Many of them expect these risks to increase. Among the most common examples of climate-related risks to insurers are extreme weather events. These events increase the risk of catastrophic events, and can cause large premium increases. Insurers can reduce the risk of catastrophic events by developing innovative insurance solutions, such as parametric pricing.

    Insurers must also demonstrate that they understand the risks associated with climate change. Insurers can stress-test their exposure to climate-related risks, rebalance their portfolios, and use their existing business models to respond to emerging risks. They can also invest in sustainable infrastructure to increase resiliency.

    A global campaign called Insure Our Future urges insurers to cut off support for new fossil fuel projects, and calls on insurers to divest from fossil fuels. Investing in sustainable infrastructure will not only improve resiliency, but it may also contribute to job creation.

    Insurers must also continue to support climate change research. Several companies have already announced initiatives to address climate change. For example, the US Securities and Exchange Commission released a proposal in March for mandatory climate disclosure requirements. Insurers should support climate change research and demonstrate to regulators that they are ready to manage climate-related risks.

    Insurers must also demonstrate that their management of climate-related risks is effective, and that they are transparent about the risks that they are taking. The report suggests that insurers should make climate change forecasts available to the public.