IB Geography 2.2.3 Impacts on People and Societies Notes

Vulnerability and Adaptation Challenges

1. Climate change is reshaping our world, creating new challenges for human and natural systems.
2. There are three main factors associated with vulnerability to climate change:
   1. Exposure: The degree to which people (or ecosystems) are exposed to climate change.
   2. Sensitivity: The degree to which they could be harmed by exposure to climate change.
   3. Adaptive capacity: The degree to which they could mitigate the potential harm by taking action to reduce their exposure or sensitivity.
3. Understanding these vulnerability factors is critical to developing effective adaptation strategies.

Health Hazards: A Growing Threat

Heat Stress

1. Rising global temperatures increase the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, posing severe health risks.

1. Vulnerable Populations:
   1. Elderly individuals, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions are particularly at risk.
2. Urban Heat Islands:
   1. Cities amplify heat due to dense infrastructure and limited green spaces.

Waterborne Diseases

1. Climate change alters precipitation patterns, leading to more frequent floods and droughts.
2. These conditions create ideal environments for waterborne diseases like cholera and dysentery.

Malnutrition

1. Changes in climate disrupt agricultural systems, reducing crop yields and food availability.
2. This leads to higher food prices and increased malnutrition, especially in low-income regions.

Migration: The Rise of Climate Refugees

1. Climate change is forcing millions to leave their homes due to rising sea levels, droughts, and extreme weather events.

Rising Sea Levels

1. Coastal communities are particularly vulnerable to sea level rise, which causes flooding and erosion.