Syllabus Edition

First teaching 2015

Last exams 2025

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Climate Change Adaptation Strategies (DP IB Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS)) : Revision Note

Alistair Marjot

Written by: Alistair Marjot

Reviewed by: Bridgette Barrett

Updated on

Climate Change: Adaptation Strategies

  • As the impacts of climate change become increasingly evident, it is essential to implement adaptation strategies to reduce adverse effects and maximise any potential positive outcomes

    • Climate change adaptation strategies focus on building resilience and adapting to changing climate conditions

Climate Change Adaptation Strategies

Adaptation Strategy

How to Implement Strategy

Flood Defences

  • Constructing and reinforcing flood protection infrastructure, such as levees, flood barriers, and coastal defences, to mitigate the risks associated with rising sea levels and increased rainfall

  • Implementing sustainable drainage systems (SUDs) to manage and control excess water during heavy rainfall events

  • Restoring and preserving natural floodplains, wetlands, and mangroves, which act as natural buffers against flooding

Vaccination Programmes

  • Developing and implementing proactive public health measures, including vaccination programs, to address the changing disease patterns and emergence of new health risks associated with climate change

  • Strengthening disease surveillance systems to monitor and respond to climate-related health impacts, such as the spread of vector-borne diseases in new regions

Desalination Plants

  • Investing in desalination technologies to increase freshwater availability in regions facing water scarcity due to reduced rainfall or saltwater intrusion

  • However, it is important to also ensure the sustainability of any desalination practices by integrating energy-efficient methods, utilising renewable energy sources, and minimising the environmental impacts (e.g. of brine disposal)

Planting of Crops in Previously Unsuitable Areas

  • As climate patterns shift and certain regions experience milder temperatures or increased rainfall, areas that were once unsuitable for certain crops may become suitable for cultivation

  • This expansion of suitable growing conditions can open up new opportunities for farmers, allowing them to cultivate a broader range of crops and increase agricultural output

  • This has the potential to contribute to food security by reducing reliance on specific crops or specific regions that may be more vulnerable to climate change impacts

david-clode-r5zaunysr2g-unsplash

Photo by David Clode on Unsplash 

Mangrove forests act as natural buffers against flooding

  • These adaptation strategies aim to reduce vulnerability and enhance the capacity of communities, ecosystems, and sectors to cope with the impacts of climate change

  • By implementing these measures, societies may be able to minimise potential harm, seize opportunities, and increase resilience in the face of a changing climate

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Alistair Marjot

Author: Alistair Marjot

Expertise: Biology & Environmental Systems and Societies Content Creator

Alistair graduated from Oxford University with a degree in Biological Sciences. He has taught GCSE/IGCSE Biology, as well as Biology and Environmental Systems & Societies for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. While teaching in Oxford, Alistair completed his MA Education as Head of Department for Environmental Systems & Societies. Alistair has continued to pursue his interests in ecology and environmental science, recently gaining an MSc in Wildlife Biology & Conservation with Edinburgh Napier University.

Bridgette Barrett

Reviewer: Bridgette Barrett

Expertise: Geography Lead

After graduating with a degree in Geography, Bridgette completed a PGCE over 25 years ago. She later gained an MA Learning, Technology and Education from the University of Nottingham focussing on online learning. At a time when the study of geography has never been more important, Bridgette is passionate about creating content which supports students in achieving their potential in geography and builds their confidence.

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