brightspace notes 2/2 Flashcards
(87 cards)
1
Q
What is the Arctic?
A
The Earth’s northernmost region, encompassing parts of Canada, Russia, the United States (Alaska), Greenland, and the Nordic countries.
2
Q
What defines the Arctic’s climate?
A
Extreme cold, sea ice, snow-covered landscapes, and unique ecosystems adapted to harsh conditions.
3
Q
What role does the Arctic play in regulating the Earth’s climate?
A
It reflects solar radiation (albedo effect) and stores vast amounts of carbon in frozen soil.
4
Q
What is Arctic amplification?
A
The phenomenon where the Arctic is warming at nearly four times the global average.
5
Q
What is the significance of multi-year ice in the Arctic?
A
It is sea ice that persists from year to year, crucial for the Arctic ecosystem.
6
Q
How does the loss of sea ice affect the Arctic climate?
A
It reduces the albedo effect, leading to increased warming of the Arctic Ocean.
7
Q
What happens to snow cover in the Arctic due to warming?
A
It decreases, leading to more absorption of sunlight and further warming.
8
Q
What is the trend in Arctic sea ice extent since 1968?
A
Declining at approximately 7.1% per decade.
9
Q
What are the consequences of melting sea ice?
A
- Threat to wildlife like polar bears and seals
- Increased vulnerability of coastal communities
- Contribution to global climate instability
10
Q
What is permafrost?
A
Ground that remains at 0 degrees Celsius or colder for at least two consecutive years.
11
Q
What risks are associated with thawing permafrost?
A
- Infrastructure damage
- Greenhouse gas release
- Altered landscapes
12
Q
How does climate change disrupt Arctic ecosystems?
A
- Shifts in vegetation
- Changes in the food chain
- Wildlife struggles
13
Q
What could happen if the Greenland Ice Sheet melts entirely?
A
Global sea levels could rise by approximately >7 meters.
14
Q
How does Arctic warming influence global weather patterns?
A
- Weakening of jet streams
- Disruption of ocean currents
- Increased frequency of wildfires
15
Q
Why is the Arctic referred to as the world’s refrigerator?
A
It regulates global temperatures by reflecting sunlight.
16
Q
What actions are suggested to address the climate crisis in the Arctic?
A
- Reducing greenhouse gas emissions
- Protecting Arctic ecosystems
- Supporting Indigenous communities
- Investing in climate science
17
Q
What is the Anthropocene?
A
An epoch where human activities are the primary drivers of planetary changes.
18
Q
What are key features of the Anthropocene?
A
- Transformation of landscapes
- Climate change
- Loss of biodiversity
19
Q
What is one significant environmental impact of human activities in the Anthropocene?
A
A mass extinction event rivaling those of geological history.
20
Q
What began the Great Acceleration, marking the start of the Anthropocene?
A
A period around 1950 when social and environmental indicators began to exponentially increase.
21
Q
Fill in the blank: The Arctic is experiencing warming at ______ times the global average.
A
four
22
Q
True or False: The loss of reflective ice in the Arctic contributes to further warming.
A
True
23
Q
What does the term Anthropocene signify?
A
A pivotal moment in Earth’s history where human activities have become a geological force shaping the planet’s trajectory.
It encapsulates the transformative impact of human activities on Earth’s systems.
24
Q
What are the main criteria for defining a new geologic epoch?
A
Identifying a clear and globally synchronous signal in the geological record, distinct from natural variability.
This involves examining stratigraphic markers and anthropogenic changes.
25
What is the primary marker of the Anthropocene?
Artificial radionuclides spread worldwide by thermonuclear bomb tests starting in the early 1950s.
## Footnote
Plutonium is the most widely recognized radionuclide in these records.
26
What organization is responsible for evaluating and defining Earth's time scale?
International Commission on Stratigraphy (ICS).
## Footnote
It operates under the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS).
27
What is the role of the Anthropocene Working Group (AWG)?
To examine whether the Anthropocene meets the criteria for formal recognition as a new geologic epoch.
## Footnote
They review potential stratigraphic markers and sites.
28
What are the significant environmental changes associated with human activities in the Anthropocene?
* Global warming
* Sea-level rise
* Ocean acidification
* Habitat loss
* Species invasions
* New chemical compounds
## Footnote
These changes are linked to anthropogenic perturbations of natural cycles.
29
What is the expected decision timeline for the formal recognition of the Anthropocene?
The decision is expected to occur in 2024.
## Footnote
The ICS will make the final determination after the AWG's review.
30
What does the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) establish?
The principle of 'common but differentiated responsibilities' regarding climate change.
## Footnote
It recognizes that developed countries have a greater responsibility due to historical emissions.
31
What was the first legally binding international agreement targeting GHG emissions?
Kyoto Protocol (1997).
## Footnote
It set emission reduction targets for developed countries.
32
What are the goals of the Paris Agreement (2015)?
* Limit global warming to well below 2°C
* Efforts to cap it at 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels
## Footnote
It requires all countries to submit nationally determined contributions (NDCs).
33
What is the European Union (EU) Green Deal's aim?
Achieve climate neutrality by 2050.
## Footnote
This includes policies such as the Emissions Trading System (ETS) and investments in renewable energy.
34
What is Canada's commitment under the Paris Agreement?
Achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
## Footnote
Canada has implemented various policies to support this goal.
35
What is the national carbon pricing framework in Canada?
A carbon levy on fossil fuels and an output-based pricing system (OBPS) for large industrial emitters.
## Footnote
The carbon levy started at CAD 20 per tonne in 2019 and will rise to CAD 170 per tonne by 2030.
36
What is a significant aspect of Canada’s Clean Energy Transition?
Phase-out of unabated coal power by 2030.
## Footnote
This is part of broader efforts to reduce GHG emissions.
37
What is the focus of Canada's National Adaptation Strategy (2022)?
Strengthening infrastructure and enhancing disaster preparedness.
## Footnote
It aims to protect communities from extreme weather.
38
What challenges does climate change pose to the sports industry?
* Extreme weather events
* Infrastructure risks
* Athlete health and performance
## Footnote
These challenges affect event scheduling and overall viability.
39
What is the role of the United Nations’ Sports for Climate Action Framework?
Push major leagues and tournaments to commit to carbon neutrality.
## Footnote
It integrates sustainability requirements into sporting events.
40
How did the 2022 World Cup address climate extremes?
Held in November and December to avoid excessive summer temperatures.
## Footnote
Cooling technologies were also incorporated in stadiums.
41
What measures were taken for the Tokyo 2021 Summer Olympics to deal with heat?
* Scheduled marathon early in the day
* Moved men's marathon to Sapporo
* Explored reflective surface for race course
## Footnote
These adjustments aimed to mitigate the effects of extreme heat.
42
What is the impact of extreme temperatures on sports events?
Increased risks of heat exhaustion and dehydration for athletes and spectators.
## Footnote
Sports organizations are implementing cooling measures and revising schedules.
43
What are the statistics on heat-related deaths globally from 2000 to 2019?
Approximately 489,000 heat-related deaths occurred annually.
## Footnote
45% of these were in Asia and 36% in Europe.
44
What is the estimated number of heat-related deaths globally each year between 2000 and 2019?
Approximately 489,000 heat-related deaths
## Footnote
45% in Asia and 36% in Europe (Zhao et al, 2021)
45
What is expected to cause approximately 250,000 additional deaths per year between 2030 and 2050?
Climate change
## Footnote
From malnutrition, malaria, diarrhea, and heat stress
46
What is the estimated direct damage cost to health due to climate change by 2030?
Between USD 2-4 billion/year
## Footnote
Excluding costs in health-determining sectors
47
Which regions are least able to cope with climate change impacts due to weak health infrastructure?
Developing countries
48
What types of diseases may expand due to climate change?
Vector-borne diseases
## Footnote
Examples include schistosomiasis, malaria, and dengue
49
What is the impact of climate change on winter sports in Canada?
Extensive impacts leading to reduced participation and revenue
50
How much does the ski industry contribute to the Canadian economy annually?
Nearly $840 million
51
What is the estimated annual revenue from winter tourism and cultural events in Canada?
$5 billion
52
What has been observed about the duration of ice cover on Lake Simcoe?
Declining duration of ice cover
53
What is the aim of the Rink Watch study initiated by researchers at Laurier University?
Gather data about the impacts of climate change on winter climate across Canada
54
What are the socio-economic impacts of climate change?
Disruption of economies, altering livelihoods, exacerbating inequalities
55
How does climate change affect tourism?
Alters destination preferences, increases natural disasters, damages attractions
56
What are some effects of rising temperatures on tourism destinations?
Less attractive coastal locations, shorter ski seasons
57
What financial impact did Hurricane Irma have on tourism infrastructure in the Caribbean?
Over $3 billion in damages
58
Which sector employs thousands of people in hotels, restaurants, and tour operations?
Tourism industry
59
What is a key adaptation strategy for tourism-dependent economies?
Investing in sustainable tourism practices
60
What are the key impacts of climate change on Canada's ski industry?
Shortened ski seasons, increased dependence on artificial snowmaking
61
What challenges does the ski tourism industry face due to climate change?
Revenue loss, decline in local business profits, job losses
62
What is the impact of increased wildfires on Canadian national parks?
Risks to tourism due to poor air quality and park closures
63
How does climate change affect iconic glaciers in Canada?
They are shrinking, reducing their appeal to visitors
64
What is a potential opportunity for tourism due to climate change?
Longer summer seasons in some regions
65
What has been the impact of climate change on the Niagara wine industry?
Growth and expansion of wine tourism due to suitable conditions
66
Fill in the blank: Climate change is expected to increase the geographic distribution of _______ diseases.
Vector-borne
67
True or False: Climate change will only affect regions with extreme heat.
False
68
What grape species did the Niagara wine industry focus on transitioning to in the 1990s?
Vitis vinifera
## Footnote
This species is used for premium wines.
69
What designation was established in 1988 to improve quality standards for Niagara wines?
VQA (Vintners Quality Alliance)
## Footnote
This designation helped promote Niagara wines nationally and internationally.
70
How many wineries are there in the Niagara region today?
Over 100 wineries
## Footnote
The region produces diverse styles including ice wine, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Franc.
71
What positive impact has climate change had on the Niagara wine industry?
Warmer growing seasons
## Footnote
This has allowed for the cultivation of grape varieties that previously struggled in Canada’s cool climate.
72
What are some challenges introduced by climate variability for winemakers?
* Unpredictable frost events in spring and fall
* Heatwaves causing dehydration
* Intense storms increasing mildew risk
* Winter freeze events for delicate grape varieties
73
What is the primary requirement for producing ice wine?
Consistent sub-freezing temperatures
## Footnote
This is necessary to produce the desired concentration of sugars.
74
What negative effect is climate change having on ice wine production?
Shortened ice wine harvest window
## Footnote
This raises concerns about the long-term sustainability of ice wine production.
75
What agricultural staple crops are highly sensitive to rising temperatures?
* Wheat
* Rice
* Maize
76
What is one major consequence of climate change on food supply chains?
Disruptions from extreme weather events
## Footnote
This leads to food spoilage, price hikes, and shortages.
77
What adaptation strategies are farmers adopting in response to climate change?
* Drought-resistant crops
* Improved irrigation systems
* Agroforestry
78
What is reducing freshwater availability in regions dependent on glacier-fed rivers?
Glacier melting and prolonged droughts
## Footnote
This impacts drinking water supply and irrigation.
79
What percentage of water use in the Prairies is accounted for by agriculture?
More than 60%
## Footnote
This is particularly for irrigation of wheat, canola, and barley crops.
80
What extreme weather event in 2013 caused extensive damage in Calgary?
Calgary Flood
## Footnote
This disaster led to mass evacuations and billions in damages.
81
What is one major health risk associated with extreme heat events?
Increased mortality rates
## Footnote
Particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly.
82
What diseases are becoming more prevalent due to the spread of vectors as a result of climate change?
* Malaria
* Dengue fever
* Lyme disease
83
What impact does climate change have on air quality?
Worsens air pollution
## Footnote
This increases the prevalence of respiratory illnesses such as asthma.
84
What are climate refugees?
People displaced due to environmental changes and extreme weather events
## Footnote
This includes rising sea levels and desertification.
85
What is one legal challenge faced by climate refugees?
Lack of recognition in international legal frameworks
## Footnote
This limits their rights and protections.
86
Fill in the blank: Climate change directly affects human health by increasing the risk of _______.
[heat-related illnesses]
87
What is a significant economic impact of climate-induced migration?
Pressure on urban infrastructure
## Footnote
This can exacerbate unemployment and social tensions.
