Climate change

Introduction

Exploring extreme weather events and our role in mitigating climate change

Welcome to this activity where we will dive into one of the most pressing issues of our time: extreme weather events and their connection to climate change. Over the past few decades, we have seen a significant increase in thefrequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as hurricanes, floods, heatwaves, and droughts. These events are no longer rare, isolated occurrences, but a global phenomenon that affects millions of lives every year.

Statistical overview

According to NASA and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) :

  • The last decade (2011-2020) was the hottest on record: with 2020 tying with 2016 as the warmest year on record.
  • Sea levels are rising by about 3.6 mm per year, which contributes to the increased risk of flooding incoastal areas.
  • Heatwaves have become 3 times more likely due to human-induced climate change.
  • Extreme rainfall events have increased by 30% in frequency since 1950.

These trends are alarming, but the future projections are even more concerning:

  • If global temperatures rise by 2°C, scientists predict that heatwaves will occur every 1-2 years in many parts of the world, affecting more than 1.7 billion people by 2050.
  • Global sea levels could rise by over 1 meter by the end of the century, displacing millions of people living in coastal areas.
  • Without significant climate action, the economic costs of climate change could reach $23 trillion per year globally by 2050.

Looking Ahead: Projections for the Future

  • By 2030, extreme weather events are projected to become more severe and frequent. For example, wildfires could increase by up to 30% in regions like the Mediterranean and the western United States.
  • Droughts and water scarcity could affect over 700 million people within the next decade if globalemissions continue at current rates..
  • The UN IPCC report warns that limiting global warming to 1.5°C by 2050 would reduce the occurrence of extreme events, but this requires urgent and unprecedented action on a global scale.

Why is it important?

This increase in extreme weather is not just a natural phenomenon. It is largely caused by human activities such as deforestation, industrial emissions and the burning of fossil fuels. The United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development has identified climate action as a top priority for the global community. Specifically, SDG 13 (Climate Action) calls for urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.

Your Role in the Solution

In this activity, you will explore how your actions can contribute to solving this global problem. We will use tools like ecological footprint measurement systems to understand how our consumption patterns affect theenvironment, and we’ll look at ways to reduce our impact. You will also analyze how international policies, like the Paris Agreement, and initiatives from the European Union can shape a more sustainable future.

As you work through this webquest, ask yourself: What can I do to reduce my ecological footprint?

How can I encourage others to take climate action? You will have the chance to create a presentation, take quizzes, and engage with real-world data to deepen your understanding of this critical issue.

Together, we can become more informed and active in protecting our planet for future generations.

Task

STEP ONE

Your task is to create an informative and engaging presentation that explains the science behind climate change, its effects on the environment and human societies, and potential strategies for mitigation and adaptation.

You will work in 5 groups to complete the following steps:

  1. Research the Science of Climate Change: Understand what climate change is and the evidence supporting it.
  2. Investigate the Impacts: Explore how climate change affects ecosystems, weather patterns, sea levels, and human health.
  3. Examine Solutions: Look into ways we can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to changes that are already happenig.
  4. Develop a Presentation: Summarize your findings in a multimedia presentation that includes visuals, data, and actionable steps.

Choose from NASA's website an aspect of the consequences of climate change that you want to use as a starting point. Choose the images and describe them with a short text, in the kind of presentation you prefer (slides, infographics, video clips, etc.). You can use data from Climate Action Monitor to support your thesis.

For the presentation :

Using your knowledge, take the quiz on any device by going to   Quizizz  and entering the join code 521180 or using  

After completing the quiz, create your own group quiz with different questions using  Kahoot!: Kahoot! Quiz Creator  to reinforce knowledge and prepare for future discussions on these critical topics in class.

Please insert the link to your group's presentation and the link to the quiz you created at the following board in Digipad  Scan me!

 

STEP TWO



Your task is using ecological footprint measurement systems, ask yourselves what virtuous behaviors can help the planet.

Please enter 3 words related to the ecological footprint in the following word cloud  

Process
  • Form Groups: Divide into groups of 4 students.
  • Assign Roles: Within your group, assign roles such as Researcher, Writer, Designer, and Presenter.
  • Research Phase: Research the Science: Use reliable sources to understand the greenhouse effect, carbon cycle, and evidence of climatechange (e.g., rising temperatures, melting glaciers). Recommended websites: NASA Climate Change, IPCC, NOAA Climate.
  • Investigate the Impacts: Find information on how climate change affects different regions and sectors (e.g., agriculture,health, biodiversity). Recommended websites: EPA Climate Impacts, National Geographic, WHO Climate.
  • Examine Solutions: Research renewable energy, energy efficiency, carbon pricing, reforestation, and other mitigationstrategies. Explore adaptation measures like building resilient infrastructure and sustainable agriculture.
  • Present Findings: Each group present their work to the class. Be prepared to answer questions and discuss findings.
Evaluation

Criteria

Excellent (4)

Good (3)

Satisfactory (2)

Needs Improvement (1)

Accuracy and Relevance

 

 All information presented is scientifically accurate, up-to-date, and directly relevant to the topic; uses credible sources. Most information is accurate and relevant, but a few minor inaccuracies or outdated data; sources are generally credible. Information is somewhat accurate but contains noticeable errors or outdated data; limited use of credible sources. Information is largely inaccurate or irrelevant, with poor or no use of credible sources.

Clarity and Precision

 Concepts are explained clearly, with precise scientific terminology, and are easy to understand for the target audience. Concepts are mostly clear, with appropriate use of scientific terminology, but some sections may lack precision. Concepts are somewhat clear, but there are notable ambiguities or oversimplifications in explanations. Concepts are unclear, imprecise, or too simplified, with inappropriate or incorrect use of scientific terminology.

Visuals

 Excellent use of visuals; diagrams and animations enhance understanding and engagement. Good use of visuals; adds value to the presentation. Some visuals are used; relevance could be improved. Few or no visuals; presentation lacks visual appeal.

Language

 Technical language is accurate, varied, and consistently appropriate for the scientific context and audience. Technical language is mostly accurate and appropriate, with occasional minor errors or simplifications. Technical language is somewhat accurate, but there are notable mistakes or oversimplifications. Technical language is frequently incorrect or inappropriate for the scientific context and audience.
Conclusion

By exploring extreme weather events, the ecological footprint, and the UN Agenda 2030, you’ve learned about the global challenges we face. But that’s just the beginning. Climate change affects all life on Earth, and each of us has a role to play in creating positive change.

As you leave this activity, remember that small actions can lead to big changes. Join local environmental groups, support renewable energy initiatives, or raise awareness in your community. Together, we can work towards a more sustainable and resilient future for all.

Knowledge alone isn't enough.

It's important to turn these insights into concrete actions. Continue to question, explore and find innovative solutions. Engage in global movements, support policies that protect the environment, and inspire others to do the same. The world is changing fast, and your generation holds the key to shaping a better, greener future.

Each step you take now, no matter how small, adds up to a significant impact over time. The journey toward sustainability is ongoing, and by staying informed and committed, you can be part of a global effort that ensures a livable planet for generations to come.

The future starts with you . Let's make it a future worth living in.

Credits
Teacher Page

Congratulations on completing this webquest! You've explored how extreme weather events, the ecological footprint, and the UN 2030 Agenda connect to global climate challenges. Remember, every small action counts. By reducing your ecological footprint and promoting sustainable practices, you contribute to a better future.

The power to make a change is in your hands. Continue to learn, stay informed, and be part of the solution.