Question: At other times in the past, human societies have adapted in the face of a crisis. Name two such times, and explain your reasoning for each.
Hint: Refer back to lesson 6, where you learned about a global fertilizer crisis.
What is being done to adapt to climate change? In response to the numerous impacts of climate change, there are many actions that can be taken locally, nationally and globally to adapt to changes in Earth’s climate. We have the opportunity today to not only adapt to climate change but also mitigate the emissions from carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases to reduce the degree of climate change. In key idea two we will look at the Design Our Climate simulation (DOCs), which is an interactive electronic simulation designed to help us explore how our energy choices and other mitigation strategies can reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Question: What do you think are some ways that people can adjust to the impacts of climate change? Once you have thought of your own ideas, click on the boxes in the table below to see some examples of adaptation measures that are being taken by nations around the world.
Shoreline defense systems; increased distances between infrastructure and coastal shorelines; construction of higher bridges over the ocean; creation of water storage areas; reinforcement of coastal barriers; development and implementation of desalinization technologies.
Seasonal forecasting; construction of storm-resistant buildings; provision of grants and insurance for those affected by storms; hot-weather alert plans and public, air-conditioned buildings; property, health, and crop insurance; flood walls around waste-water treatment plants.
Rainwater harvesting and water conservation techniques; monitoring of agricultural practices; building of shelter belts and wind breaks; assistance to farmers during drought; crop and livestock diversification; shift to drought-resistant crops; crop insurance.
Changes in northern traditional livelihood practices such as food sharing; white plastic covers to reduce glacier melt; shift of ski slopes to higher altitudes; erection of protection dams against avalanches; glacial lake drainage.