effects of climate change

Glacier melting & sea level rise

• Melting ice caps (Antarctica) cause sea levels to rise.

• Low-lying areas (Island nations like the Maldives) are at greater risk of flooding and coastal erosion.

More extreme weather

• Increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events like hurricanes, droughts, floods, and heatwaves.

• For example, wildfires are becoming more common in countries like Australia.

Loss of biodiversity

• Species may go extinct if they cannot adapt or move to new habitats.

• Coral reefs (like the Great Barrier Reef) are bleaching and dying due to warmer oceans.

Changing ecosystems

• Habitats are shifting as temperatures rise—plants and animals are moving towards the poles or higher altitudes.

• Some ecosystems may collapse if the climate changes too quickly.

Damage to property and infrastructure

• Floods, storms, and heatwaves can destroy buildings, roads, and transport networks.

• High costs for repairs and rebuilding.

Impacts on farming and food supply

• Crop yields may decline in some regions (due to drought or flooding), leading to food shortages.

• Some areas might benefit from a longer growing season, but many poorer countries will struggle.

Cost of adaptation and mitigation

• Governments will have to invest in flood defenses, emergency services, and renewable energy sources.

Health risks

• More heat-related illnesses and deaths (especially among the elderly).

• Spread of diseases like malaria to new areas.

Water shortages

• Drier areas may face droughts and lack of clean drinking water.

• Can lead to conflicts over water supply.

Climate refugees

• People may be forced to leave their homes due to sea level rise, extreme weather, or loss of farmland.

• This could lead to overcrowding in other areas or increased migration.

Threats to communities and cultures

• Coastal and indigenous communities are especially vulnerable.

• Traditional ways of life may be lost due to environmental changes.

Rising insurance costs

• As the risk of natural disasters increases, so do insurance premiums for homes and businesses.