Geography Flashcards
(16 cards)
What is the ‘climate emergency’?
A situation where climate change poses significant threats to the environment and human life.
The climate emergency emphasizes the urgent need for action to address climate change impacts.
What is meant by ‘Anthropocene’?
the time during which humans have had a substantial impact on our planet.
Create a list of the most likely impacts of climate change.
- Rising sea levels
- Increased frequency of extreme weather events
- Changes in precipitation patterns
- Loss of biodiversity
- Ocean acidification
- Food security challenges
What is biodiversity and how is it being threatened?
Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in a particular habitat or ecosystem. It is threatened by habitat loss, climate change, pollution, and overexploitation.
Biodiversity is crucial for ecosystem resilience and human well-being.
Explain what is meant by ‘climate adaptations’ and provide examples.
Actions taken to adjust to the impacts of climate change. Examples include building flood defenses and altering agricultural practices.
Adaptations help communities cope with climate-related changes.
Explain what is meant by ‘climate mitigation’ and provide examples.
Efforts to reduce or prevent the emission of greenhouse gases. Examples include transitioning to renewable energy and improving energy efficiency.
Mitigation aims to tackle the root causes of climate change.
What are the three most ‘important’ greenhouse gases?
- Carbon dioxide (CO2)
- Methane (CH4)
- Nitrous oxide (N2O)
Each gas has different sources and impacts on the environment and climate.
State ways in which both the environment AND humans contribute to each gas.
- carbon dioxide : Environment - respiration of animals
Humans - burning fossil fuels - methane : Environment - wetlands
Humans - agriculture and landfills - nitrogen : Environment - soil processes
Humans - use of fertilizers
Describe the carbon cycle and explain how increasing carbon sinks can mitigate climate change.
the movement of carbon atoms between the atmosphere, living organisms, the Earth’s surface, and the ocean
How do humans impact land cover?
Humans impact land cover through urbanization, agriculture, and deforestation.
These activities alter natural landscapes and ecosystems.
How do natural disasters impact land cover?
Natural disasters, such as floods and wildfires, can drastically alter land cover by destroying vegetation and changing landscape structure.
Recovery from such disasters can take years and affect biodiversity.
Describe the 4 “S’s” that describe the function of the environment.
- Source
- Sink
- Service
- Spiritual
These functions highlight the various roles the environment plays in supporting life.
How would the use of renewable energy potentially decrease the impacts of climate change?
Renewable energy reduces reliance on fossil fuels, thereby decreasing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change impacts.
Examples of renewable energy include solar, wind, and hydro power.
Summarise the main points of your research into a mitigation or adaptation technique.
Research should focus on effectiveness, feasibility, and potential co-benefits of the technique.
This summary helps in understanding the practical application of climate strategies.
Identify and briefly describe the different forms of renewable energy.
- Solar energy: harnessing sunlight
- Wind energy: using wind turbines
- Hydropower: generating power from water flow
- Biomass: using organic materials for energy
- Geothermal: utilizing heat from the Earth
What can governments do to reduce the threat of climate change?
Governments can implement policies for emission reductions, invest in renewable energy, promote energy efficiency, and support conservation efforts.
Effective governance is crucial for addressing climate change on a larger scale.
