Impacts case studies Flashcards
1. What are the potential impacts of climate change on the UK?
In the UK, climate change could have various impacts. New crops such as oranges, grapes, and peaches could be grown, potentially boosting new industries. Winter heating costs are expected to be reduced, and milder winters are anticipated. Cold-related mortality is projected to fall by 2% by 2050 and 12% by 2080. However, Scottish ski resorts may have to close due to a lack of snow. Droughts and floods are expected to become more likely as extreme weather events increase. Winter rainfall is projected to increase, while summer rainfall may decrease. This could lead to increased water demand in the summer, putting pressure on water supplies. Additionally, the UK is likely to experience an increased number of extreme high sea-level events caused by storm swells, with a predicted 10-1800 times more occurrences by 2100. Heat-related mortality is also expected to rise, with a 70% increase observed between 2000 and 2020 and a predicted increase of 580% by 2080.
- How might climate change impact China?
Climate change could have both positive and negative impacts on China. According to some studies, climate change could be beneficial for agricultural productivity in the country. China is also set to become a global leader in green technology, which could help sustain its economic growth. However, there are significant challenges as well. Glacier retreat, with approximately 48,000 glaciers in China, could lead to large-scale flooding and mudslides in mountainous regions. It is projected that two-thirds of Asian glaciers could disappear by 2100. Rising sea levels pose a threat to densely populated cities like Shanghai and Guangzhou, with a 1-meter rise potentially displacing 67 million people. Water resource issues may decrease the outputs of rice, wheat, and corn. Heatwaves in the continental interior could become more common, impacting human health and agriculture. Climate change is also expected to increase the risk of species extinction, with a projected 20-30% of species facing this threat.
- What are the potential impacts of climate change on Bangladesh?
Bangladesh, as a low-income developing country (LIDC), is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The country faces multiple challenges, including floods and flash floods, with 80% of Bangladesh prone to flooding, especially in urban areas and slums. Increased cyclone intensity and storm surges pose a significant threat to low-lying delta areas. Salinity intrusion from rising sea levels threatens crop production and coastal water stores. River bank erosion is expected to wash away settlements. The loss of arable land due to climate change will impact food security, with 30% of Bangladeshis already experiencing malnourishment. Mass migration is a growing concern, with a projected displacement of 30 million people, both internally and externally, by 2100. Melting Himalayan glaciers could cause flood events in the short term and droughts in the long term, as rivers in Bangladesh depend on glacial melt. A 1-meter sea-level rise could result in a 12-16% loss in land area for Bangladesh.
