Human Environment System Flashcards
(10 cards)
Define a Natural Hazard
A natural hazard is a natural event or process that can cause damage, destruction, or loss of life, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, volcanic eruptions, floods, or droughts.
Impact of a Hurricane on Life and Property
Hurricanes can cause widespread damage by strong winds, heavy rain, and storm surges. They can destroy homes, uproot trees, flood areas, disrupt electricity and water supplies, and lead to injuries or loss of life. For example, Hurricane Ivan in 2004 caused massive destruction in Grenada, damaging buildings and infrastructure.
Response to Natural Hazards in Jamaica (Hurricanes)
Individual responses: People prepare by securing homes, stocking emergency supplies, and following evacuation orders. Communities often organize drills and awareness campaigns.
National responses: The Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) coordinates disaster planning, issues warnings, organizes relief efforts, and provides education.
Regional responses: The Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) assists member states by providing resources, coordinating regional response teams, and supporting disaster recovery efforts.
Define Pollution
Pollution is the introduction of harmful substances or contaminants into the environment that cause adverse effects on living organisms and ecosystems.
Types of Pollution
Air pollution: Smoke, gases, and dust released into the atmosphere.
Water pollution: Contamination of rivers, lakes, and oceans by chemicals, sewage, or waste.
Land pollution: Dumping of solid waste, chemicals, and toxic materials on land.
Noise pollution: Excessive noise that harms human and animal health.
Areas in the Caribbean Where Pollution Is a Problem
Kingston, Jamaica: Air and water pollution due to industry and poor waste management.
Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago: Industrial pollution and waste disposal issues.
Caribbean coastal areas: Marine pollution affecting coral reefs and fisheries.
Measures Used to Reduce Pollution
Enforcing environmental laws and regulations.
Promoting recycling and proper waste disposal.
Using cleaner energy sources and technologies.
Educating the public about pollution and conservation.
Establishing protected areas and pollution monitoring.
Long-Term Changes in Global Temperatures
Global temperatures have been rising steadily over the last century due to human activities, with increased greenhouse gas emissions causing a trend of global warming and climate change.
Causes and Consequences of Global Warming, Coral Reef Destruction, and Deforestation
Causes: Burning fossil fuels, deforestation, industrial pollution, and agricultural practices increase greenhouse gases.
Consequences: Rising sea levels, more extreme weather, loss of biodiversity, coral bleaching, and soil erosion.
Measures to Reduce Emissions, Coral Reef Degradation, and Deforestation
Reducing carbon emissions through renewable energy and energy efficiency.
Implementing marine protected areas and regulating fishing to protect reefs.
Promoting reforestation and sustainable land use practices.
Raising awareness and enforcing environmental policies.
