Climate change

Definition

Climate change refers to significant and lasting changes in the Earth's climate, particularly a rise in global temperatures caused by human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation. This phenomenon impacts ecosystems, weather patterns, and traditional lifestyles, especially in vulnerable regions like the Arctic.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Climate change is leading to a loss of sea ice in the Arctic, affecting wildlife habitats and traditional hunting grounds for Indigenous peoples.
2. Melting permafrost releases significant amounts of greenhouse gases, exacerbating the climate crisis and further impacting local ecosystems.
3. The changing climate is altering migration patterns for animals like caribou and polar bears, which rely on stable environmental conditions for their survival.
4. Indigenous communities face increased challenges to their traditional ways of life as climate change disrupts subsistence practices and cultural practices tied to the land.
5. International cooperation through organizations like the Arctic Council is critical for addressing climate change and its impacts on Arctic communities.

Review Questions

• How does climate change specifically affect traditional ways of life and subsistence practices among Arctic peoples?
  • Climate change significantly impacts traditional ways of life for Arctic peoples by altering the availability of resources such as marine and terrestrial wildlife that are vital for subsistence. As sea ice diminishes and animal migration patterns shift, hunting, fishing, and gathering become more challenging. This not only threatens food security but also disrupts cultural practices that are closely tied to these subsistence activities.
• In what ways does climate change influence biodiversity conservation efforts in the Arctic region?
  • Climate change poses serious challenges for biodiversity conservation efforts in the Arctic by creating shifts in habitat availability and species distribution. As temperatures rise, many species face threats from habitat loss and changing food webs. Conservation strategies must adapt to these changes to ensure the survival of both native species and their habitats, necessitating more dynamic approaches to conservation that consider ongoing environmental changes.
• Evaluate the role of international cooperation in addressing climate change challenges faced by Arctic communities.
  • International cooperation plays a vital role in tackling climate change challenges faced by Arctic communities by fostering collaboration among nations to share knowledge, resources, and best practices. Organizations like the Arctic Council facilitate dialogue between Indigenous peoples, governments, and scientists to develop comprehensive strategies for adaptation and mitigation. Effective international agreements can lead to coordinated efforts in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, protecting ecosystems, and supporting the resilience of local communities against the impacts of climate change.

Related terms

Greenhouse gases: Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide and methane, contributing to global warming and climate change.

Permafrost:

A layer of permanently frozen ground found in polar regions, which is rapidly thawing due to rising temperatures and releasing stored carbon dioxide.

Ecosystem resilience: The ability of an ecosystem to absorb disturbances and reorganize while undergoing change, maintaining essential functions and services despite climate change impacts.