Climate Change Impacts and Sea Level Rise

Sea Level Rise

• Global sea levels have risen 8-9 inches since 1880
• Scientists predict a further rise of 1-8 feet by the end of the century
• The rate of rise varies based on coastal geography, erosion and ocean currents
• Sea level rise is a concern for densely populated coastal regions.
• Many major cities (e.g., Jakarta, Bangkok) are at risk from rising seas and flooding.
• "Sunny-day flooding" is already affecting some coastal areas

Impacts on Agriculture

• Climate change impacts crop yields globally
• Crop yields are projected to decline in many regions
• Rising temperatures, changing precipitation, and extreme weather reduce crop yields
• Increased carbon dioxide reduces the nutrient levels in key crops (e.g., zinc, iron, protein, vitamins) in staple crops
• Some regions may see increases, but these are outweighed by projected decreases.

Biodiversity Threats

• Climate change, combined with pollution, threatens biodiversity.
• Increased temperatures and altered precipitation patterns make it hard for species to adapt
• Loss of biodiversity could lead to extinctions of animal and plant species.
• 1 million animal and plant species are threatened.

This quiz explores the effects of climate change, focusing on sea level rise, impacts on agriculture, and biodiversity threats. Understand the historical context of sea level changes and how climate alterations affect food production and ecological systems. Prepare to learn how these issues intersect and affect our world today.