“Human activity needs to focus more on adapting to the expected negative impacts
of climate change than on taking measures to restore atmospheric carbon to pre-
industrial levels.’ How far do you agree with this view?”
Adapting to the expected negative impacts of climate change should be prioritised over solely
focusing on restoring atmospheric carbon to pre-industrial levels. Carbon capture and storage
(CCS) technologies offer an effective method of adaptation. These systems can significantly
reduce CO2 emissions from industrial sources. It is suggested that CCS could cut global CO2
emissions by up to 19% by 2050, offering a tangible means of mitigating climate change impacts.
By investing in CCS technology, we can directly address the ongoing emissions from various
industries, thereby reducing the exacerbation of climate change. While efforts to reduce emissions
at the source are crucial, adaptation strategies like CCS offer a practical solution to deal with the
CO2 already present in the atmosphere, helping to minimise future impacts. The implementation of
CCS can be scaled up globally to encompass a wide range of industries, including power
generation, cement production, and steel manufacturing.
In addition to CCS, changes in agriculture can also play a significant role in adaptation efforts.
Altering agricultural practices to withstand changing climatic conditions can enhance resilience and
ensure food security. For instance, adopting drought-resistant crops and implementing water-
efficient irrigation techniques can help mitigate the impacts of water scarcity induced by climate
change, like has been done in Peru with their potato farming. Furthermore, promoting sustainable
farming practices such as agroforestry and conservation agriculture can sequester carbon in soils,
contributing to both adaptation and mitigation goals. Coastal defences represent another crucial
aspect of adaptation. With rising sea levels and increased storm intensity, coastal communities are
increasingly vulnerable to flooding and erosion. Investing in robust coastal defences such as
seawalls, dikes, and mangrove restoration can safeguard communities and critical infrastructure
from the impacts of climate change, such as is the case in Male, where a 3m sea wall has been
erected and new properties are being built on stilts to raise them above the water.
However, while adaptation strategies are essential in the short term, efforts to mitigate climate
change by reducing carbon emissions remain paramount. Renewable energy sources such as
solar, wind, and hydroelectric power offer sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels, helping to
decarbonise the economy. International agreements like the Paris Agreement provide a framework
for collective action to limit global warming and mitigate its adverse effects. However, it must be
acknowledged that while international agreements are good in theory, the reality is that many
countries have missed their targets with no accountability or negative implication for this.
Afforestation and reforestation initiatives on the other hand may be a better solution, as they can
also contribute to carbon sequestration, further supporting mitigation efforts. For instance, the
Bonn Challenge aims to restore 350 million hectares of degraded land by 2030, which could
sequester significant amounts of carbon dioxide on a global scale.
In conclusion, while restoring atmospheric carbon to pre-industrial levels is important, prioritising
adaptation to the expected negative impacts of climate change is essential. Carbon capture and
storage technologies, changes in agriculture, and coastal defences offer effective means of
adaptation, complementing mitigation efforts. By addressing the immediate challenges posed by
climate change, we can build resilience and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.
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