Photo AI
Question 3 — Global climate change (a) Explain the physical factors that contribute to global climate change - Scottish Highers Geography - Question 3 - 2019
Question 3
Question 3 — Global climate change (a) Explain the physical factors that contribute to global climate change. (b) Explain possible strategies for managing climate ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Question 3 — Global climate change (a) Explain the physical factors that contribute to global climate change - Scottish Highers Geography - Question 3 - 2019
Step 1
Explain the physical factors that contribute to global climate change.
Answer
Global climate change is influenced by various physical factors. Key contributors include:
-
Natural Changes in Earth’s Orbit: Variations in the Earth's orbital parameters, known as Milankovitch cycles, affect the amount of solar energy received. These cycles alter the distance and tilt of the Earth relative to the Sun, leading to periods of warming or cooling.
-
Solar Radiation: Changes in solar output can significantly impact global temperatures. An increase in solar energy leads to warmer climates, while a decrease can contribute to cooling.
-
Volcanic Activity: Volcanic eruptions can inject large amounts of ash and sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere. This can lead to short-term cooling by reflecting solar radiation away from the Earth, but eventually the release of greenhouse gases can contribute to long-term warming.
-
Ocean Currents: Changes in ocean currents affect heat distribution around the globe. For example, shifts in the Gulf Stream can influence weather patterns and climatic conditions.
-
Greenhouse Gas Emissions: While not purely physical, the natural release of greenhouse gases from sources like methane from wetlands contributes to the greenhouse effect, leading to warmer global temperatures.
These factors, on their own or combined, create a complex system that impacts climate trends over time.
Step 2
Explain possible strategies for managing climate change.
Answer
To effectively manage climate change, various strategies can be employed at local, national, and international levels:
-
Local Strategies:
- Waste Management: Encourage recycling and composting to minimize waste sent to landfills, which produce methane. Communities can also develop local programs to promote sustainable living.
- Energy Efficiency: Implementing energy-saving initiatives in buildings, such as retrofitting to meet higher energy standards, can reduce overall carbon footprints.
-
National Strategies:
- Government Policies: Implement policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions, such as carbon taxes or cap-and-trade systems. For instance, encouraging the use of renewable energy sources over fossil fuels.
- Incentives for Renewable Energy: Offering tax breaks or subsidies for individuals and businesses that invest in renewable energy technologies can promote sustainability.
-
International Strategies:
- Global Agreements: Participate in international agreements such as the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to below 2°C by reducing global greenhouse gas emissions.
- Research and Development: Collaborate internationally on research to develop new technologies that capture carbon emissions or enhance energy efficiency, such as carbon capture and storage.
These strategies illustrate a multi-faceted approach involving local initiatives, national policies, and international cooperation to effectively manage and combat climate change.