Indicator Rationale
Burning of fossil fuels and deforestation are major contributors to human induced climate change or global warming. Global warming is predicted to have a massive global impact on biodiversity, economies and societies. We have already seen an unprecedented increase in violent weather events over the last ten years (Reuters 2006, Leahy, 2004). The rapid rate of climate change that is predicted will have significant negative consequences, with Australia being particularly vulnerable.
Potential impacts of global warming in Australia are:
- Temperature increases
- Water resources will be under increased pressure via reduced precipitation, reduced runoff and flows.
- Possible alterations to El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and ocean currents.
- Reduced agricultural productivity (reduced range of crops that can be grown)
- Sea level rises
- Increased range of disease organisms and vectors – increased costs of health care
- Coral reef bleaching
- Impact on tourism
- Loss of biodiversity
- Increased incidence of violent weather events
- A range of social and economic impacts
World wide, changes to rainfall distribution, global currents and air temperatures will have massive impacts on societies, especially those living on low lying islands and dependent on subsistence farming. Such a scenario may lead to increasing numbers of environmental refugees and social dislocation.Addressing climate change is a global challenge. An integrated, approach incorporating emerging technologies, carbon sinks and the use of renewable, carbon neutral fuel sources is needed to halt global warming in both developed and developing countries.
Data Source
Data sources to be explored further.
Measures
Data sources to be explored further.
References
Reuters (2006). Northeast floods stir global warming debate. 29 June 2006.
