CLIMATE CHANGE
Done by: Shemar Clarke, Khajaun Madrill,
Kenric Logan, Efrain Velasquez and Kellan
Sutherland
3/19/2024
Roxanne Gentle
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introductionn................................................... Page3
Backgrou ...........................................................Page4
Current state of climate change...................Page5
Causes of Climate Change.............................Page6
Impact on Belize environment.......................Page7
Impact on Belize Society................................Page8
Mitigation Strategies.....................................Pages9
Adaptation Strategies...................................Page10
Challenges and Barriers................................Page11
Conclusion.......................................................Page12
Recommendations.........................................Page13
References.......................................................Page14
INTRODUCTION
Climate change stands as one of the most pressing
challenges of our time, presenting a profound threat to
our planet's ecosystems, biodiversity, and human
societies. Stemming from the escalation of greenhouse
gases in our atmosphere, primarily due to human
activities like fossil fuel combustion and deforestation,
this phenomenon has triggered a cascade of effects
collectively known as global warming. The repercussions
are far-reaching, manifesting in rising sea levels, more
frequent and severe weather phenomena, disruptions to
ecosystems, and jeopardized food and water security.
In light of these grave implications, our project aims to
raise awareness about climate change, focusing intently
on its impacts and ways to mitigate and adapt to its
effects. By delving into the intricate interplay between
climate change and our ecosystems, we seek to
underscore the urgent need for decisive action to
mitigate its effects and safeguard our planet for
generations to come. Through a blend of research and
education, we aspire to ignite a spark of change,
empowering individuals and communities to make
informed decisions that support the preservation of our
precious Earth.
BACKGROUND
Climate change, a phenomenon of paramount concern, is
fundamentally rooted in the accumulation of greenhouse
gases in Earth's atmosphere. These gases, including carbon
dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O),
serve a crucial role by trapping heat from the sun and
maintaining our planet's temperature at a livable level
through a process known as the greenhouse effect.
However, human activities, particularly the burning of
fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas, have significantly
increased the concentration of these gases, intensifying
the greenhouse effect and leading to a steady rise in
global temperatures—an occurrence commonly referred to
as global warming. This global warming has triggered a
series of far-reaching consequences, including the melting
of polar ice caps and glaciers, a rise in sea levels, more
frequent and severe heatwaves, storms, and droughts,
disruptions to ecosystems and biodiversity, and significant
shifts in weather patterns. Understanding the intricacies of
the science behind climate change is crucial for devising
effective strategies to mitigate its impacts and adapt to its
ever-evolving challenges, thereby fostering a more
sustainable and resilient future for generations to come.
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CURRENT STATE OF
CLIMATE CHANGE
The current state of climate change presents a stark
reality, characterized by a series of concerning trends
and data points observed worldwide. One of the most
glaring indicators is the persistent rise in global
temperatures, a trend that has persisted over the past
few decades, culminating in the warmest years on
record. This temperature increase has set in motion a
chain of events, notably the accelerated melting of
polar ice caps and glaciers, which has contributed to a
steady rise in sea levels. Since 1880, sea levels have
surged by approximately 8 inches (20 cm), with
projections indicating a further escalation, posing
significant threats to coastal communities and
ecosystems worldwide. Concurrently, there has been a
noticeable uptick in the frequency and severity of
extreme weather events, such as hurricanes,
droughts, heatwaves, and wildfires, causing
widespread devastation and loss of life. These events
not only exact an immediate toll but also have
enduring repercussions on ecosystems, biodiversity,
and human health and welfare. Ecosystems globally
are grappling with mounting pressure, as shifting
temperature and precipitation patterns disrupt
habitats, leading to the displacement of species and a
concerning loss of biodiversity. The data and trends
underscore the urgent need for decisive action to curb
the impacts of climate change and safeguard our
planet's future.
CAUSES OF CLIMATE
CHANGE
Climate change is driven by a complex interplay of
human activities and natural factors. Human
activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels
such as coal, oil, and natural gas, release large
amounts of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
These gases, including carbon dioxide (CO2),
methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), enhance
the greenhouse effect, leading to global warming
and climate change. Deforestation is another
significant contributor, as trees absorb CO2 and
their removal reduces the planet's capacity to
offset emissions. Additionally, agricultural
practices, such as livestock farming and rice
cultivation, produce methane, a potent greenhouse
gas. On the other hand, natural factors, such as
volcanic eruptions and changes in solar radiation,
can also influence the climate. While these natural
factors have historically played a role in climate
variability, human activities have become the
dominant drivers of climate change in recent
decades, significantly altering the Earth's climate
system.
IMPACT ON BELIZE
ENVIRONMENT
Climate change has a great impact on Belize as a
country. We are in the tropical areas so all year
round we already have a great amount of heat in
the country and the way the world is heading we
are only going to gain more and more. The rising
temperatures that we are experiencing in our
country have a great impact on our ecosystems and
habitats and they can be altered and disrupted.
This can lead to species distributions and the
abundance of certain species in addition to this we
can also experience the loss of biodiversity in our
country as it may be difficult for some species of
animals and plants to adapt to the climate which
may lead to some migrating to find a suitable
ecosystem where they can thrive.
Another threat that we may face is the acidity of
our ocean which is the cause of excess carbon
dioxide being absorbed into our waters, it does not
only harm marine life and coral reefs but also
affects fisheries and tourism which are a vital part
of Belize’s economic resource. Climate change
also can disrupt our agricultural production
through changes in temperature and precipitation
resulting in crop fields being affected, our food
security can also be affected, and livelihoods
specifically of the people down in the rural areas
who depend on agriculture.
The change in our climate also causes the rise of
sea levels which does pose a serious threat to our
country. Our coastal communities, infrastructure,
and ecosystems are all below sea level and are at
risk of threats such as flooding, erosion, property
damage, biodiversity loss, and much more. In
summary, Belize can be affected in many ways by
climate change, and addressing these challenges
requires understanding mitigation and adaptation
strategies to help reduce the impacts that climate
change has on our beloved country
IMPACT ON BELIZE
SOCIETY
Effects on Vulnerable Communities and Economies
Dr. Kenrick Leslie, Executive Director of the Caribbean
Community Climate Change Centre (CCCCC) has done studies on
the projection of sea level rise. According to his report the sea
level on Belize’s coast is rising at a rate of 3 millimeters per year.
At this rate he estimates that the entire northern part of our
coast up to Punta Gorda will be submerged by 2100.
Besides losing land to the sea, the erosion of the soil caused by
sea level rise can have greater effects when inflamed by storms
and hurricanes. Greater storm surges can travel further inland
and causing more damage to the homes and infrastructure in
coastal areas. This can cost the government a lot to get things
back to normal including assisting citizens. Further more
intrusion of sea water into the inland water tables holding our
fresh water could result in destruction of crops or the salination
of fresh water which an affects wells and the availability of fresh
water.
The ecosystems in Belize are very fragile when it comes to
climate changes. Most of our habitats and the flora and fauna
that call them home rely on the climate remaining constant in
order for them to survive. As a tropical country with basic wet
and dry seasons and in the past few years Belize has been
experiencing extended periods of drought. This resulted in some
of our rivers especially the New River in the north of Belize,
falling below normal levels leading to oxygen depletion and the
mass die off of fish, further polluting the rivers and driving more
damage. The bad smell and fumes from decomposition is
harmful to the health of the communities that live along the river
but there are also the less fortunate that rely on fishing to feed
their families or sell to make money for their family. Additionally
the stagnation and depletion of oxygen would promote the
explosion of mosquito larvae who, with less fish to eat them at
the surface, would lead to more cases of Vector borne diseases.
On the other hand the loss of river bank vegetation from
extended droughts also reduces the natural protection which
could make floods during the wet season more severe, causing
more damage to home and crops and more disease.
In Belize, you can be trekking through thick jungles in the morning
and be snorkeling the reef by the afternoon. Our country contains
Mountains, Savannahs, Pine Ridges, Swampland/Mangrove
forests and tropical rainforests in addition to aquatic
ecosystems. These habitats are loaded with animals and plants
that are quite different but they all contribute to the health of
their habitat. While there are no documented cases of extinction
of any of the many species that inhabit these ecosystems there
are many that are endangered and on the brink in part because
of humans and compounded by climate change. In the same light,
Belize is home to the Jaguar and the world’s only Jaguar
Preserve, which for the communities that live around that area
are a source of income in terms of tourism and crafts. The
effects of climate change on habitat loss would be devastating
to the economy of the area who rely on the tourists and
government entities to make a living, the loss of this precious
habitat could greatly affect the economy of the southern part of
Belize.
MITIGATION
STRATEGIES
Mitigation strategies aimed at reducing
greenhouse gas emissions encompass a
diverse range of approaches, including
transitioning to renewable energy sources,
enhancing energy efficiency, and adopting
sustainable practices. By decreasing
dependence on fossil fuels for electricity
generation, heating, and transportation,
renewable energy technologies like solar,
wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal power
can significantly curb emissions.
Additionally, improving energy efficiency
in buildings, transportation systems, and
industrial processes reduces overall
energy consumption and greenhouse gas
emissions. Embracing sustainable
practices such as afforestation,
reforestation, sustainable agriculture, and
waste management further contributes to
mitigating climate change by sequestering
carbon and minimizing emissions. These
strategies align with the overarching goal
of mitigating climate change outlined by
experts—to stabilize greenhouse gas
levels, protect ecosystems, ensure food
security, and promote sustainable
economic development.
ADAPTATION
STRATEGIES
Adapting to climate change
involves infrastructure upgrades,
policy adjustments, and community
resilience efforts. Infrastructure
improvements, like building flood
defenses and enhancing water
storage, aim to withstand rising
sea levels and extreme weather
events. Policy changes, such as
zoning regulations and incentives
for renewable energy, encourage
climate-resilient practices.
Community resilience initiatives
empower locals through education
and capacity-building to prepare
for climate impacts, fostering
social cohesion and sustainable
land use. These measures
collectively build resilience and
mitigate the challenges of climate
change on a local scale.
CHALLENGES AND
BARRIERS
One of the most difficult challenges is finding the finances to limit
or restore the damage and prepare for what could be expected.
Sea level rise is already affecting coastal communities and the
proper infrastructure needs to be implemented to limit the soil
erosion already taking place and prepare for further sea level
rise. In Monkey River Village steps have been taken to install Geo
tubes to limit the impact of higher waves and storm surges but
only with the help of hefty financial donations. A lot of work needs
to be done to try to mitigate the effects of soil erosion and
unfortunately small countries like Belize do not have enough
financial resources to work on these projects in a meaningful
manner.
Another obstacle that limits the ways we can respond to climate
change is human behavior. We have become accustomed to
living in a certain manner and obtaining what we need to survive,
no matter what the consequences are to the environment.
Whether it's using our vehicles for simple errands which can be
done on a bike or on foot, supporting or buying goods that do not
use sustainable practices to produce what we consume or not
being responsible for the type of garbage we dispose of from our
homes. Modern humans have adapted to the fast past consumer-
based economies where the greatest goal is not the future of our
environment but making money from the little resources we have
left.
Lastly, the use of fossil fuels is the foundation of our modern
society, it powers our vehicles and our homes in addition to many
other uses. It is valuable and many have established themselves
as “masters” because of the profits they have made and fight to
keep that dominance. To add to this, the world still has not found
a viable alternative to fossil fuels, furthermore the time and
money it would take to implement this across entire countries is
massive. Until the energy needs of the people can be fulfilled
consistently, we can never truly leave fossil fuels behind.
CONCLUSION
As a result of climate change, ecosystems,
biodiversity, and human societies are threatened
globally. As a result of human activities such as
fossil fuel combustion and deforestation that have
contributed to the increase in greenhouse gases,
global warming has triggered a cascade of effects.
As a result, sea levels are rising, more severe
weather phenomena are occurring, ecosystems
are being disrupted, and food and water security
are at risk. We aim to raise awareness about
climate change and its impacts, focusing on
mitigation strategies to mitigate the effects of
climate change. To safeguard our planet for future
generations, we explore the intricate relationship
between climate change and ecosystems. We aim
to empower communities and individuals to make
informed decisions in support of preserving our
precious Earth and mitigating climate change
challenges through research, education, and
advocacy.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Recommendations from everyone in the country is a contribution to the
mitigation and adaptation to climate change. Things such as promoting
renewable energy and sustainable land use are just a couple of
examples we can get into to figure out ways to fight against climate
change
Renewable energy can be achieved by installing solar panels and
having renewable energy providers. People may say that having solar
panels is expensive especially to maintain but if everyone came
together collectively as a community for projects such as this one the
financial stain would be easier to tackle. We can also implement policies
to encourage the transition into renewable energy sources.
Communities can also lead conservation efforts for sustainable land use
and practice land management. Policies can be created to protect
natural habitats and agriculture which can help by allowing animals to
have a longer time to stay and maybe even find a way to adapt to
climate change.
In addition to all this, by creating climate-resistant homes and
buildings, we lower the risk of being affected by climate, for example,
erosion, it will be as easy to be affected by erosion as before if we do
implement climate-resistant buildings in our country. By implementing
the change we can create a more resilient and sustainable future
REFERENCES
HTTPS://WWW.CARIBBEANCLIMATE.BZ/BLOG/2016/06/10/BELIZE-MOST-
VULNERABLE-IN-CENTRAL-AMERICA-TO-SEA-LEVEL-RISE/
HTTPS://WWW.BFREEBZ.ORG/WP-
CONTENT/UPLOADS/2019/11/MRROADMAP_ELECTRONIC_031419_LOGO.PDF
HTTPS://WWW.SCIENCE.ORG/DOI/10.1126/SCIENCE.1090228
HTTPS://WWW.SANPEDROSUN.COM/ENVIRONMENT/2019/09/09/STAGNAT
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IMPROVEMENT/
HTTPS://HEALTH2016.GLOBALCHANGE.GOV/VECTORBORNE-DISEASES
HTTPS://CLIMATE.EC.EUROPA.EU/CLIMATE-CHANGE/CAUSES-CLIMATE-
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