Climatic Change – SS3 Geography Lesson Note (First Term)

Climate change is a long-term alteration in temperature, precipitation, wind patterns and other aspects of the Earth’s climate system, lasting from decades to millions of years. Natural factors cause some of it, but the term usually describes present-day changes driven mainly by human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation.

Behavioural objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. Explain climatic change and its causes.
2. Discuss the consequences of climatic change.
3. Examine the measures taken by the Nigerian government to minimise the impacts of climatic change.

Instructional techniques

• Identification
• Explanation
• Questions and answers
• Demonstration
• Videos from the source

Instructional materials

• Videos
• Loudspeaker
• Textbook
• Pictures

What is climate change?

Climate change refers to long-term alterations in temperature, precipitation, wind patterns and other aspects of the Earth’s climate system. It involves shifts in weather patterns over extended periods, ranging from decades to millions of years. While natural factors contribute to climate variability, the term “climate change” is often used to describe contemporary changes primarily influenced by human activities.

What are the causes of climate change?

1. Greenhouse gas emissions: The burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil and natural gas) for energy releases large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat, leading to an enhanced greenhouse effect and warming of the Earth’s surface.
2. Deforestation: Deforestation is the clearing of forests for agriculture, logging or other purposes. It reduces the number of trees that absorb CO₂ through photosynthesis. This contributes to higher atmospheric CO₂ levels and accelerates global warming.
3. Industrial processes: Certain industrial processes release potent greenhouse gases, such as fluorinated gases, contributing to the warming of the atmosphere.
4. Agricultural practices: Agricultural activities, including rice cultivation and livestock farming, produce methane. Livestock digestion and manure release significant amounts of methane into the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect.
5. Land use changes: Changes in land use, such as urbanisation and changes in surface cover, can alter the Earth’s albedo, reflecting more or less sunlight back into space. This can influence temperature patterns.
6. Volcanic activity: Volcanic eruptions release sulphur dioxide into the atmosphere, which can form aerosols that reflect sunlight into space. While volcanic activity can temporarily cool the climate, its long-term impact is limited compared to human-induced factors.

What are the consequences of climatic change?

The following are significant consequences of climatic change.

1. Increased global temperatures lead to more frequent and intense heat waves, affecting ecosystems, agriculture and human health.
2. More frequent and severe events such as hurricanes, floods, droughts and wildfires pose significant risks to communities, infrastructure and ecosystems.
3. Melting glaciers and polar ice contribute to rising sea levels, threatening coastal areas, low-lying islands and coastal communities.
4. The absorption of excess atmospheric CO₂ by oceans leads to acidification, which harms marine life, particularly coral reefs and shell-forming organisms.
5. Changes in climate conditions may outpace the ability of some species to adapt, leading to shifts in ecosystems and potential extinctions.
6. Altered precipitation patterns and increased evaporation contribute to water scarcity, affecting agriculture, drinking water supplies and sanitation.
7. Changing climate conditions affect crop yields, reduce agricultural productivity and disrupt food supply chains, leading to increased food insecurity.
8. Changing climate patterns can influence the spread of diseases, increase the risk of heat-related illnesses and worsen existing health challenges.

What measures has the Nigerian government taken to minimise the impacts of climate change?

1. National Climate Change Policy and Response Strategy: Nigeria has developed this policy and strategy to guide climate action and promote sustainable development.
2. Renewable energy promotion: The government is working to increase the share of renewable energy in its energy mix, with a focus on solar and wind power.
3. Reforestation and afforestation: These initiatives aim to plant trees to enhance carbon sequestration, prevent deforestation and promote sustainable land management.
4. Climate adaptation programmes: The government implements programmes to build resilience in sectors such as agriculture, water resources and infrastructure.
5. National Adaptation Plan: The government is developing this plan to address vulnerabilities and promote climate resilience in various sectors.
6. Climate finance: The government seeks international climate finance to support mitigation and adaptation efforts, including funding for renewable energy projects and climate-resilient infrastructure.
7. Environmental protection measures: Policies and regulations are put in place to reduce environmental degradation, control deforestation and protect natural resources.

Evaluation

1. What is climatic change?
2. Identify five causes of climatic change.
3. Mention five consequences of climatic change.
4. Mention five measures taken by the Nigerian government to minimise the impacts of climate change.

Classwork: As in the evaluation.

Assignment

Explain how deforestation and agricultural practices contribute to climate change.

The teacher commends the students positively.