MEVE 014: Unit 06 - Biodiversity and Climate Change Interactions

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 UNIT 6: BIODIVERSITY AND CLIMATE CHANGE INTERACTIONS

6.1 Introduction

Climate change and biodiversity loss are two of the most pressing environmental challenges facing the planet. They are intricately linked—climate change affects biodiversity, while biodiversity can influence the climate system. The degradation of ecosystems reduces their capacity to sequester carbon and regulate climate, while changes in temperature, precipitation, and extreme events can alter species distribution, behavior, and survival. Understanding these interactions is vital for developing effective strategies to mitigate and adapt to climate change and conserve biodiversity.

6.2 Objectives

After studying this unit, you will be able to:

  • Understand the concept of biodiversity and why its loss is a major concern.
  • Analyze the interdependence between biodiversity and climate change.
  • Assess the vulnerability of biodiversity to climate change.
  • Examine the role of biodiversity in climate mitigation and adaptation.
  • Explore management responses to reduce the impacts of climate change on biodiversity.

6.3 Biodiversity

6.3.1 Concept

Biodiversity refers to the variety of life on Earth, including the diversity within species (genetic), between species (species diversity), and of ecosystems (ecosystem diversity). It ensures ecosystem productivity, stability, and resilience, and provides essential services such as pollination, water purification, nutrient cycling, and climate regulation.

6.3.2 Why Biodiversity Loss is a Concern?

Biodiversity loss undermines the health of ecosystems and their ability to provide services. It can lead to:

  • Reduced ecosystem resilience to environmental changes.
  • Disruption of ecological processes.
  • Increased vulnerability to pests, diseases, and climate extremes.
  • Loss of cultural and economic resources, especially for indigenous communities.
  • Diminished potential for climate adaptation and carbon sequestration.

6.4 Biodiversity and Climate Change Interactions

Biodiversity and climate change influence each other through complex feedback loops:

  • Impacts of Climate Change on Biodiversity: Changes in temperature, precipitation patterns, ocean acidification, and extreme weather events can:
    • Shift species distributions.
    • Cause habitat loss (e.g., melting Arctic habitats, coral bleaching).
    • Alter reproductive cycles and migration patterns.
    • Increase extinction risks, especially for endemic and specialist species.
  • Impacts of Biodiversity on Climate: Ecosystems regulate the global carbon cycle and climate by:
    • Sequestering carbon in forests, wetlands, and soils.
    • Modifying surface albedo and water cycles.
    • Influencing greenhouse gas emissions through biological processes.

6.5 Vulnerability and Impact Assessment of Biodiversity to the Climate Change

Biodiversity vulnerability depends on:

  • Exposure to climate change (e.g., temperature rise, sea-level rise).
  • Sensitivity of species/ecosystems to climate variables.
  • Adaptive capacity—the ability to adjust or cope with changes.

Tools for assessment include:

  • Species distribution models (SDMs).
  • Ecosystem risk assessments.
  • Climate envelope modeling.
  • Vulnerability indices.

High-risk ecosystems include coral reefs, polar regions, mangroves, and alpine environments.

6.6 Role of Biodiversity in Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation

Mitigation Role:

  • Carbon Sequestration: Forests, peatlands, and wetlands absorb and store large quantities of CO₂.
  • Emissions Reduction: Conservation of ecosystems prevents emissions from deforestation and degradation.
  • Climate Regulation: Vegetation cover influences local and global climate patterns.

Adaptation Role:

  • Ecosystem-Based Adaptation (EbA): Using biodiversity and ecosystem services to help people adapt, such as:
    • Restoring mangroves for coastal protection.
    • Conserving forests to regulate water flow.
    • Agro-biodiversity to ensure crop resilience.

6.7 Management Responses to Climate Change Impacts on Biodiversity

Management responses include:

  • Protected Area Expansion and Connectivity: Ensuring species movement and migration.
  • Restoration Ecology: Rehabilitating degraded ecosystems to increase resilience.
  • Assisted Migration: Translocating species to more suitable habitats.
  • Monitoring and Early Warning Systems: Tracking biodiversity changes and threats.
  • Integrated Landscape Management: Balancing conservation and development.

6.8 Reducing the Impacts of Climate Change on Biodiversity

Key strategies:

  • Mainstreaming Biodiversity in Climate Policies: Integrating biodiversity goals into national climate adaptation and mitigation plans.
  • Sustainable Land Use and Agriculture: Promoting agroecology, reducing deforestation.
  • Reducing Non-Climate Stressors: Controlling pollution, habitat destruction, and invasive species.
  • Community-Based Conservation: Engaging local communities in decision-making and stewardship.
  • Finance and Incentives: Mobilizing resources through mechanisms like REDD+ and climate funds.

6.9 Let Us Sum Up

  • Biodiversity and climate change are deeply interconnected.
  • Climate change adversely affects species distribution, phenology, and ecosystem services.
  • Biodiversity plays a critical role in carbon storage and building climate resilience.
  • Effective assessment and integrated management strategies are essential to reduce biodiversity vulnerability and enhance adaptation.
  • Conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity can support climate goals and human well-being.

6.10 Keywords

  • Biodiversity – Variety of life in all its forms and interactions.
  • Climate Change – Long-term alteration of temperature and weather patterns.
  • Vulnerability – Degree to which systems are susceptible to climate change.
  • Ecosystem-Based Adaptation (EbA) – Use of biodiversity to aid adaptation.
  • Carbon Sequestration – Process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon.
  • Protected Areas – Zones designated for conservation of nature and biodiversity.
  • REDD+ – Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation, a climate mitigation mechanism.

 

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