Water and Carbon case studies Flashcards
(16 cards)
Where is the River Eden located?
In the northwest of England, primarily flowing through Cumbria and Carlisle.
What physical factors influence flooding in the River Eden?
Steep slopes of the Pennines, impermeable bedrock (e.g. shale), and high rainfall.
What human activities have exacerbated flooding in the Eden Basin?
Urbanisation in Carlisle, deforestation in upland areas, and intensive farming.
What was a major flood event in the River Eden?
Carlisle Floods in January 2005 and Storm Desmond in 2015.
What caused the Carlisle Floods (2005)?
Heavy rainfall (200mm in 36 hours), saturated ground, and urban runoff.
What were the impacts of the 2005 Carlisle Floods?
3 deaths, over 1,800 homes flooded, £400 million in damages.
What management strategies are used in the River Eden?
Flood defenses (levees and floodwalls), river restoration, and afforestation.
Where is the Amazon Rainforest located?
South America, covering Brazil, Peru, Colombia, and surrounding countries.
How does the Amazon contribute to the global carbon cycle?
It stores around 100 billion tonnes of carbon and absorbs 1-2 billion tonnes annually.
How is the Amazon’s water cycle affected by deforestation?
Reduces evapotranspiration, decreases rainfall, and increases surface runoff.
What are the main causes of deforestation in the Amazon?
Cattle ranching, soy farming, logging, mining, and road building.
What are the impacts of deforestation on the Amazon’s carbon cycle?
Reduces carbon storage, increases CO₂ emissions from burning and decay.
What strategies are being used to protect the Amazon?
Protected areas (e.g. national parks), reforestation, and international agreements (e.g. REDD+).
What is the role of the Amazon in the global water cycle?
Generates 20-25% of its own rainfall through evapotranspiration; affects regional and global weather.
What are the climate risks to the Amazon?
Droughts, forest dieback, and increasing fire frequency due to climate change.
How does the Amazon affect regional climate?
Moisture recycling leads to high humidity and rainfall across the basin and neighboring regions.
