Grade 12 Geography Unit 2 : Climate Change

This unit 2 delves into climate change, one of the most pressing global issues of our time. You’ll explore the science behind a warming planet, distinguish between natural and human causes, and examine the consequences for both the world and Ethiopia. The unit also covers the global and national strategies designed to address this challenge.

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Chapter 2.1 – Basic concepts of climate change

This chapter lays the groundwork for understanding the fundamental terms used in the study of climate.

• Define and distinguish between weather (short-term atmospheric conditions) and climate (the long-term average of weather).
• Explain the concept of climate change as a significant and lasting change in the statistical distribution of weather patterns over periods ranging from decades to millions of years.

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Chapter 2.2 – Trends in global climate change

This section examines the evidence showing how the Earth’s climate has been changing, particularly in recent history.

• Analyze data and trends that demonstrate a clear pattern of global warming, such as the increase in average global air and ocean temperatures.
• Identify other key indicators of climate change, including widespread melting of snow and ice, and rising global average sea level.

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Chapter 2.3 – Natural and human induced climate change

Explore the different factors that can cause the climate to change.

• Identify natural causes of climate change, such as variations in the Earth’s orbit (Milankovitch cycles), volcanic eruptions, and changes in solar radiation.
• Focus on human-induced (anthropogenic) causes, primarily the release of greenhouse gases (like carbon dioxide) from burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes.

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Chapter 2.4 – Consequences of climate change

This chapter explores the profound and far-reaching impacts of a changing climate.

• Identify major global consequences, including rising sea levels, melting glaciers, and an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events (droughts, floods, heatwaves).
• Examine the specific impacts on Ethiopia, such as threats to agriculture, water scarcity, and challenges to food security.

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Chapter 2.5 – Adaptation and mitigation strategies to climate change

Learn about the two primary approaches to responding to climate change.

• Mitigation: Focuses on reducing the sources of greenhouse gases. Strategies include transitioning to renewable energy (solar, wind), improving energy efficiency, and reforestation.
• Adaptation: Focuses on adjusting to the current and future effects of climate change. Strategies include developing drought-resistant crops, building sea walls, and improving water management systems.

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Chapter 2.6 – International conventions and agreements on climate change

This chapter reviews the history of global cooperation to address climate change.

• Assess major international efforts, such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
• Analyze the goals and outcomes of key agreements like the Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement.

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Chapter 2.7 – Pillars of Climate Resilient Green Economy of Ethiopia

Discover Ethiopia’s ambitious national strategy to tackle climate change while promoting economic growth.

• Explain the purpose of the Climate Resilient Green Economy (CRGE) initiative, which aims for Ethiopia to become a middle-income country by 2025 with zero net carbon emissions.
• Identify the key pillars of the CRGE strategy, focusing on areas like agriculture, forestry, renewable energy, and transport.

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Learning Outcomes

By the end of this unit 2, you’ll be able to:

• Distinguish between natural and human-induced climate change.
• Analyze climate change trends in Ethiopia and the world.
• Recognize major climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies.
• Assess major international climate agreements.
• Explain the purpose and pillars of Ethiopia’s CRGE strategy.