Back

Study

Climate Change

This topic covers the evidence for climate change over the Quaternary period and more recently, the natural and human causes of climate change, the effects of climate change on the environment and people, and how climate change can be managed through mitigation (reducing causes) and adaptation (responding to effects).

We British like to talk about the weather, so global climate change should give us plenty to go on...

Exam Tips

  • •Climate change is a really hot topic (sorry), so make sure you learn this stuff inside and out before your exam.
  • •Glacial cycles -- as used by the polar bears in the Tour de Greenland... Make sure you know the difference between glacial and interglacial periods.
  • •The greenhouse effect -- an irresistible urge to throw stones... Explain how deforestation contributes to the greenhouse effect. [2 marks]
  • •Make sure you know the difference between mitigation and adaptation and you'll be flying come exam day. Mitigation means taking action to reduce the risk, and adaptation means trying to adjust to new conditions.
  • •When I need alternative energy, I reach for the cookie jar... Remember the key mitigation strategies: carbon capture, planting trees, alternative energy production, and international agreements like the Paris Agreement.