Lesson 17 How might climate change affect communities

Lesson 17 : How might climate change affect communities around the world? L/A : What and where are Sids?

Please put the following title and write out these notes in your book: Who is at risk? By 2030 it is estimated that 950 million people around the World will live in LOW ELEVATION COASTAL ZONES (LECZ’s) LECZ’s area where the land is less than 10 metres above current sea level. There are three potential risks posed to people living in these areas: 1. Sea Level rise will increase the risk of coastal flooding 2. Heavier rainfall increases the risk of flash floods in urban areas with poor drainage 3. More violent storms and hurricanes due to warmer sea temperatures lead to increased risks of coastal erosion and storm surges

Look at these photos what do they have in common? Discuss your ideas

The answer is Water!

Add these notes – we will be using Mumbai as a case study later…. Built on low-lying land, much of Mumbai is only 10 m above sea level. Other cities like New York, Singapore and New Orleans (famously : Hurricane Katrina) are also at risk.

New York – on a coastal flood plain

London on a Coastal flood plain

Add these notes in your book: Many of these cities are amongst the poorest members of society and are most at risk of natural hazards. This is because the poorest neighbourhoods are often in low lying areas and are built alongside waterways or seafronts that are vulnerable to flooding. As sea levels rise, some people may have to leave their homes. They will become ENVIRONMENTAL REFUGEES

But remember – environmental refugees can also be found in wealthy countries. This is Jaywick in Essex

The following map shows small island states (sids). Answer the questions in the boxes in your books What do the initials SIDS stand for? Write a definition in your book Describe the location of these countries Describe the location of The Maldives Why might people living in these isolated places be more vulnerable to hazards?