Global Hazards and Climate Change

These flashcards cover key concepts about natural hazards, climate change, and sustainable management strategies based on the lecture notes.

What climatic factors contributed to droughts and wildfires in Australia from 2001-2009?

Australia's positioning in the Global Atmospheric Circulation - the Ferrel Cell, El Nino events, and climate change contributed to increased dryness. Also, it has no high mountains to promote precipitation.

What were the human and ecological consequences of the droughts and wildfires in Australia?

100,000 job losses, 2% decrease in rice production, impact on 35 bird species, wildfires killing 8 people and affecting 30,000 km of land.

How did the UK mitigate flood impacts caused by wetter ground conditions?

The UK government installed raised car parks, invested £800,000 in flood schemes, and constructed river defenses.

What legal consequences did the UK experience due to the flooding?

Damage to 58 properties, destruction of 4 homes, and coastal pollution due to debris.

What technological developments help in mitigating tectonic hazards?

Shock absorbers, pendulum systems in buildings like Taipei 101, and tsunami buoys to measure wave height.

What was the response from the international community to the Haiti Earthquake?

British aid arrived 5 days later, supporting 2 million people within the first 90 days post-earthquake.

How do Milankovitch cycles influence climate change?

They affect Earth's radiation levels through variations in tilt, orbit, and precession over thousands of years.

What is one major consequence of rising global temperatures on natural ecosystems?

Glaciers melting leading to rising sea levels, loss of habitats, and coral reef bleaching.

What agricultural impacts can climate change have in the UK?

Increased irrigation needs due to drought, but some crops may thrive in warmer conditions, such as courgettes.

What is a significant impact of human activity like deforestation on tropical rainforests?

It leads to soil erosion, reduced biodiversity, increased flood risks, and heightened landslide occurrences.

What are the sustainable practices being employed in Monteverde Cloud Forest?

Ecotourism limited to 200 people at a time to reduce disturbance and protect biodiversity.

How does Union Glacier manage visitor impact on Antarctica?

Restricts visitors to 5 meters from animals, uses solar energy for heating, and limits water use.

What are some negative impacts of tourism in the Arctic and Antarctic ecosystems?

Increased pollution, potential overfishing impacts, introduction of non-native species, and physical damage to environments.

What economic benefits can tropical rainforests provide?

Harvesting of rubber, coffee, and hardwood which significantly contributes to the local and national economy.

How does climate change affect species in the UK?

Migrant birds are leaving habitats due to warming temperatures, disrupting ecosystems and food chains.