Climate Change (Junior Cert Geography): Revision Notes

Climate Change

Climate Change

Climate change is driven by the greenhouse effect, where gases like carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere, leading to global warming. Key causes include:

1. Burning Fossil Fuels: Increases CO₂ levels from coal, oil, and gas use.
2. Deforestation: Reduces CO₂ absorption as trees are cut down, releasing stored CO₂.
3. Methane Emissions: From waste, agriculture, and livestock, trapping more heat than CO₂.
4. Nitrous Oxide: Released from industrial processes, damaging the ozone layer and contributing to warming.
5. Population Growth: Drives demand for food, goods, and energy, boosting greenhouse gas emissions.

Implications of Climate Change

• Rising Sea Levels: Melting polar ice caps and glaciers cause sea levels to rise, threatening coastal areas and increasing the risk of flooding.
• More Severe Weather: Increased rainfall, stronger hurricanes, and more frequent droughts are expected due to higher atmospheric temperatures.
• Localised Effects in Ireland: Ireland is predicted to warm by 3–4°C by 2100, with more landslides, flooding, and extreme storm events like Hurricane Ophelia in 2017.

Protestors urging politicians to take action against climate change

Solutions of Climate Change

• Conserve Energy: Reduce energy consumption to lower carbon emissions.
• Use Renewable Energy: Shift to solar, wind, and other renewable sources to decrease reliance on fossil fuels.
• Reforestation: Limit deforestation and plant trees to absorb CO₂.
• Sustainable Practices: Use and manufacture products with minimal environmental impact.

Desertification

Desertification is the process by which fertile land becomes desert, typically as a result of drought, deforestation, or inappropriate agricultural practices. It is a consequence of climate change.

Effects of Desertification:

1. Famine and Drought: Prolonged droughts result in food shortages and deaths.
2. Loss of Livelihoods: Large areas of once-fertile land become barren, forcing migration and contributing to urban slums.
3. Wildlife Loss: Many animals die due to the harsh conditions.
4. Migration and Refugee Crisis: People migrate in search of food and water, leading to overcrowded refugee camps.

Solutions to Desertification:

1. Irrigation and Water Management: Improved irrigation techniques and water storage help sustain agriculture.
2. Sustainable Farming: Introducing new breeds and limiting grazing helps protect the soil.
3. Reforestation: Planting trees and grasses prevents soil erosion and provides shelter from winds.
4. Climate Justice: Supporting affected communities through development aid to combat the impacts of desertification.