Examining the impact of climate change on local ecosystems and communities

Evoundou Gigi Norgie *, Shen Zhou, Zhang Shiwen, Yakubu Yari Kate Dazagbyilo and Abubakar Sadiq Lawi

Anhui university of science and technology, school of Earth and Environment, China.
 
Review
International Journal of Science and Research Archive, 2024, 13(01), 1392–1406.
Article DOI: 10.30574/ijsra.2024.13.1.1825
Publication history: 
Received on 20 August 2024; revised on 26 September 2024; accepted on 28 September 2024
 
Abstract: 
We examine the particular impacts of rising temperatures, changed precipitation patterns, and an increase in the frequency of extreme weather events using climate models, field data, and socioeconomic analysis. The results of our investigation show that phenology, biodiversity, and species distributions are all significantly changing in the local ecosystems. Ecosystem services including pollination, water purification, and carbon sequestration are being hampered by these changes. One of the most important environmental issues facing humanity in the twenty-first century is climate change. The world's wealthiest and poorest nations are both impacted by climate change. In areas that are susceptible, for instance, shorter growing seasons and more frequent droughts are reducing agricultural productivity and leading to food insecurity. In addition to the environmental effects, local residents have substantial financial challenges. According to economic assessments, climate-related calamities such as floods and droughts have a substantial financial impact on both infrastructure and people.
Particularly impacted are communities that depend on agriculture and natural resources, which has a big impact on their standard of living and economic stability. Our research also demonstrates how different adaptation tactics, including as water conservation and sustainable land management, can improve community resilience. Another important component of our research is the effects on health. We see a rise in climate-sensitive health outcomes, especially in areas with poor access to healthcare, such as vector-borne infections and heat-related illnesses. The mediating function of socioeconomic factors, such as income and education levels, on these health outcomes is significant. Our results highlight the necessity of focused interventions and policies to improve adaptive ability and reduce health risks. The study's finding highlights how intricately local ecosystems and communities are impacted by climate change. By providing a comprehensive analysis, our aim is to inform stakeholders and policymakers about workable mitigation and adaptation strategies. Future research should focus on longer observation periods and developing comprehensive approaches to address the complex issues caused by climate change. The paper concludes that although policy frameworks are necessary, their implementation and enforcement are hampered by Africa's poor governance structure and lack of political will.
 
Keywords: 
Climate Change; Ecosystem; Communities; Health; Agriculture; Biodiversity
 
Full text article in PDF: