Human Dimensions of Global Change - Lecture Notes

A set of flashcards encompassing key vocabulary terms related to glaciers, their functions, and their socio-economic impacts on human populations as discussed in the lecture.

Glacier

A mass of moving ice that forms where more snow falls than melts.

Deglaciation

The process of glaciers melting and receding.

Ecosystem Services

The benefits that ecosystems provide to human populations, such as water supply from glaciers.

Accretion Basin

An area where glaciers accumulate snow and ice.

Glacial Meltwater

Water released from melting glaciers, important for irrigation and drinking.

Equilibrium Line Altitude (ELA)

The altitude on a glacier where accumulation of snow is balanced by melting.

Glacial Recession

The process of glaciers shrinking in size due to melting.

Periurban

Urban areas adjacent to or surrounding a city, often experiencing socio-economic challenges.

Climate Justice

The concept addressing the ethical implications of climate change and its impact on marginalized populations.