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Examine the impact of any two of the following global environmental issues: - Deforestation - Desertification - Global warming - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 14 - 2006
Question 14
Examine the impact of any two of the following global environmental issues: - Deforestation - Desertification - Global warming
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Examine the impact of any two of the following global environmental issues: - Deforestation - Desertification - Global warming - Leaving Cert Geography - Question 14 - 2006
Step 1
Deforestation
Answer
Deforestation refers to the large-scale removal of forest cover, which has significant ecological and socio-economic impacts.
Environmental Impact
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Biodiversity Loss: The removal of trees results in habitat destruction for countless species, leading to a decline in biodiversity. This can trigger local extinctions and disrupt ecosystem balance.
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Climate Change: Trees play a vital role in carbon sequestration. Their removal increases atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, contributing to global warming. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) attributes a significant percentage of greenhouse gas emissions to deforestation.
Socio-Economic Impact
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Economic Consequences: Many communities depend on forests for their livelihood. Deforestation can lead to loss of income for those who rely on timber, non-timber forest products, and ecosystem services.
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Soil Degradation: Without trees to anchor the soil, the land becomes more susceptible to erosion, while nutrient loss can lead to reduced agricultural productivity.
Step 2
Global warming
Answer
Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth's average surface temperature due to human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation.
Environmental Impact
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Rising Sea Levels: Increased temperatures cause glaciers and ice caps to melt, resulting in higher sea levels. This threatens coastal communities and ecosystems.
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Extreme Weather Events: A warmer climate is linked to more frequent and severe weather events, such as hurricanes, droughts, and heatwaves, which can have devastating impacts on communities and biodiversity.
Socio-Economic Impact
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Agricultural Disruption: Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns affect crop yields and food security. Certain regions may face increased challenges in sustaining agricultural practices.
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Health Risks: Higher temperatures can exacerbate health problems, leading to respiratory issues and the spread of diseases. Vulnerable populations are particularly at risk.