Global Warming and Climate Change

Group 3
Aguilar, Irish
Andaya, Roellamae
Balcita, Vergel Lorenz
Baquilar, Jasmine
Campoy, John Paul
Corpuz, Austin James
Jimenez, Clarisse Joy
Magbato, Jordy
Mirabuenos, Althea Jorgea
Nablo, Ronan Dave
Pepito, Jullie Ann
Quilaquel, Nika Angel
Raro, Rhea May
Yangco, Briana

Submitted to:
Isias L. Borres
GLOBAL WARMING AND CLIMATE CHANGE:
Scope, Mitigation and Adaptation

Global warming and climate change are critical challenges caused by human activities like
burning fossil fuels and deforestation, leading to rising temperatures and extreme weather
events. Urban development, which involves the growth of cities, contributes significantly to
these issues, while also being highly vulnerable to their effects. Urbanization accelerates the
demand for energy, water, and land resources, while simultaneously increasing pollution levels
and greenhouse gas emissions.

Importance:
These problems are interconnected because cities both drive and suffer from climate change.
Sustainable urban development is essential to reduce emissions, manage resources efficiently,
and create resilient cities that can adapt to changing conditions. Cities are hubs for economic,
social, and cultural activities, so their development plays a critical role in shaping the future of
the planet.

Objective:
The goal is to understand the impact of global warming and climate change on cities and
explore effective ways to mitigate and adapt to these challenges for a sustainable future. This
includes finding practical solutions for reducing the carbon footprint of cities while maintaining
their growth and ensuring the well-being of urban populations.

1.1 Understanding Global Warming and Climate Change

Global Warming — is the gradual and sustained process of increasing the average surface
temperature of the Earth. The long-term rise in Earth’s average surface temperature due to
human activities, mainly fossil fuel burning. This warming disrupts ecosystems, agricultural
productivity, and global weather patterns.

Climate Change — Refers to broader changes in Earth’s climate, including shifts in

temperature, precipitation, and extreme weather patterns over time. While global warming
focuses on temperature increases, climate change covers a variety of shifts in the climate
system, including more severe weather events, altered precipitation patterns, and melting ice
caps.

Key Factors:

Greenhouse Gases (GHGs): Emissions such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and
nitrous oxide (N2O) trap heat in the atmosphere, causing the Earth to warm. Human activities
such as transportation, industrial processes, and agriculture contribute significantly to the
concentration of these gases.
Deforestation: The clearing of forests reduces the planet's ability to absorb CO2, contributing to
higher atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases. Forests act as carbon sinks, and their
loss exacerbates the effects of global warming.

Industrial Activities: Factories, power plants, and transportation systems emit large amounts of
GHGs, accelerating the pace of global warming and climate change. Industrial growth, often
linked to urban expansion, significantly contributes to rising emissions.

1.2 Scope of Climate Change

Global Effects:

Rising Sea Levels: Melting ice and thermal expansion of seawater are causing coastal flooding
and threatening low-lying areas. This affects millions of people living in coastal cities and could
lead to the loss of vital ecosystems, such as wetlands and mangrove forests.

Extreme Weather: More frequent and intense storms, heatwaves, droughts, and hurricanes are
disrupting ecosystems and communities. Climate change is responsible for the increased
intensity of hurricanes, wildfires, and heavy rainfall.

Biodiversity Loss: Changing climates are forcing species to migrate or face extinction, disrupting
ecosystems and the services they provide. Loss of biodiversity can have far-reaching
consequences, including threats to food security, health, and the stability of ecosystems.

Human Impact:

Food Security: Altered weather patterns and extreme events reduce crop yields, leading to
hunger and food shortages. Farmers are facing unpredictable weather, which affects crop
planting seasons, water availability, and pest control.

Health Issues: Climate change exacerbates respiratory and heat-related illnesses and increases
the spread of diseases. Warmer temperatures contribute to the spread of tropical diseases,
while polluted air harms respiratory health.

Economic Consequences: Damage to infrastructure, reduced agricultural productivity, and

increased disaster recovery costs strain economies worldwide. Climate-related disasters can
result in significant economic losses, especially for developing countries.

Long-term Outlook:
Without urgent action, the damage could become irreversible, leading to permanent
environmental degradation, economic collapse, and widespread human suffering. Immediate
global efforts are needed to mitigate and adapt to these changes. The consequences of inaction
could include loss of livable land, widespread displacement, and increased conflict over
resources.
1.3 Climate Change Mitigation

Mitigation of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions

Definition:
Mitigation involves taking steps to reduce or prevent the release of greenhouse gases (GHGs)
into the atmosphere. This includes using clean energy, improving energy efficiency, and
capturing carbon to help slow down climate change and protect the environment. It focuses on
reducing the sources of climate change and enhancing the planet's ability to absorb greenhouse
gases.

Strategies:

Renewable Energy: Transitioning to solar, wind, and hydropower sources reduces dependence
on fossil fuels and lowers GHG emissions.

Energy Efficiency Improvements: Optimizing energy use in buildings, transportation, and

industry helps minimize waste and reduces the overall demand for energy.

Carbon Capture: Technologies that capture and store CO2 emissions from the atmosphere.
Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a promising approach to reduce the amount of CO2 in the
atmosphere, especially in industries where emissions are hard to eliminate.

Policies:

Global Agreements: Paris Agreement aiming for global emissions reductions. This international
treaty has set goals to limit global warming to below 2°C and ideally to 1.5°C, fostering collective
global action against climate change.

National Regulations: Government-imposed emissions standards and incentives for clean

energy. Policies like carbon pricing, subsidies for clean technologies, and regulations on
industrial emissions play a key role.

Corporate Responsibility: Commitment by businesses to reduce carbon footprints and adopt

sustainable practices. Companies are increasingly being held accountable for their
environmental impact, with many committing to net-zero emissions targets.

1.4 Climate Change Adaptation

Definition:
Adapting to climate change means adjusting practices, processes, and structures to minimize
the negative impacts of climate change and build resilience in communities and ecosystems. It
involves making cities and infrastructure more climate-resilient and developing strategies to
cope with extreme weather events.

Examples:

Building Resilient Infrastructure: Constructing buildings and roads that can withstand extreme
weather events like hurricanes, floods, and heatwaves. This includes using materials that are
more durable in harsh conditions.

Disaster Preparedness: Developing early warning systems and evacuation plans. Ensuring
communities are ready to respond to disasters can save lives and reduce damage.

Sustainable Water Management: Implementing water conservation and management strategies

to cope with changing rainfall patterns. This includes the use of rainwater harvesting systems
and wastewater recycling.

Local (Philippines) vs. Global Efforts:

Local Efforts: In the Philippines, community-level adaptation is crucial due to frequent natural
disasters. Efforts include strengthening local disaster response systems and promoting
climateresilient agriculture to ensure food security.

Global Efforts: International collaboration through agreements like the Paris Agreement focuses
on global climate action, but local adaptation ensures more direct, immediate solutions for
affected communities. Collaboration between nations ensures resources and knowledge are
shared.

1.5 Case Study: Climate Mitigation and Adaptation in Action

Denmark:
Denmark is a global leader in renewable energy, particularly wind power, where approximately
50% of its electricity comes from wind energy. This showcases how a nation can transition its
energy infrastructure to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and significantly lower carbon emissions.
Denmark's commitment to clean energy also extends to the development of energy-efficient
technologies and green building practices, making it a model for sustainable urban
development.

Costa Rica:
Costa Rica is another exemplary nation, with 98% of its electricity generated from renewable
sources such as hydropower, wind, and geothermal. Costa Rica has set ambitious goals to be
carbon neutral by 2050, making it a pioneer in sustainable energy use. The country’s policies
have fostered a thriving ecotourism industry and a strong commitment to preserving biodiversity.

Local Initiatives (Philippines):

Urban Tree Planting: In cities like Quezon City and Manila, urban tree planting initiatives have
been crucial in mitigating the urban heat island effect. Trees absorb CO2 and provide shade,
helping reduce the need for air conditioning and improving air quality. Green spaces also
contribute to better mental health and overall well-being for urban residents.

Sustainable Farming: In rural areas like Benguet and Bukidnon, sustainable farming practices
such as agroforestry and organic farming are gaining popularity. These methods reduce soil
erosion, conserve water, and improve biodiversity. Additionally, they help reduce carbon
emissions associated with conventional farming practices, such as the use of synthetic fertilizers
and pesticides.

Key Takeaways:

Renewable Energy Leadership: Denmark and Costa Rica demonstrate how transitioning to
renewable energy sources can drastically reduce emissions and contribute to climate change
mitigation.

Local Actions in the Philippines: Initiatives like tree planting and sustainable farming not only
mitigate climate change impacts but also enhance community resilience, improve food security,
and promote environmental stewardship.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, global warming and climate change pose significant challenges to urban
development, requiring immediate action to mitigate and adapt. Sustainable urban development,
through renewable energy, energy efficiency, and carbon capture, is crucial to reducing
emissions and creating resilient cities. Adaptation strategies like resilient infrastructure, disaster
preparedness, and water management help cities cope with climate impacts.

The examples of Denmark, Costa Rica, and local initiatives in the Philippines show that both
large-scale and localized efforts can drive meaningful change. By embracing sustainability,
cities can promote economic, social, and environmental well-being. The need for action is
urgent, as the future of both urban populations and the planet depends on our collective efforts
to address these challenges.
URBAN DEVELOPMENT AND THE ENVIRONMENT
Urban development has accelerated in recent years, driven by population growth, rural-to-urban
migration, and economic development. Cities now house the majority of the world’s population,
creating both opportunities and challenges. The expansion of cities often leads to greater
demand for infrastructure such as housing, transportation, and public services. However, rapid
urban growth brings with it significant environmental pressures.

Environmental Impacts:

Increased Energy Demand: The construction of new buildings and the expansion of
transportation systems require significant energy, contributing to higher greenhouse gas
emissions and reliance on non-renewable energy sources. As urbanization increases, so too
does the demand for energy, primarily in the form of electricity for homes, offices, and factories.

Habitat Loss: Urban sprawl often leads to the clearing of forests, wetlands, and other natural
landscapes, resulting in the destruction of habitats for wildlife and the loss of biodiversity. The
conversion of land for housing or commercial use compromises the ability of ecosystems to
provide essential services such as water purification and carbon sequestration.

Pollution: Rapid urbanization intensifies pollution in various forms. Construction activities,

increased vehicle use, and industrial waste contribute to air, water, and soil pollution, impacting
both ecosystems and human health. Cities often struggle with managing waste, leading to
landfills that leak harmful substances into the environment.

Key Takeaway:
The environmental impacts of rapid urbanization underscore the need for sustainable urban
planning strategies. Cities must prioritize eco-friendly practices, energy-efficient designs, and
the preservation of green spaces to mitigate these adverse effects and promote healthier, more
resilient urban environments.

2.2 Sustainable Urban Development

Definition:
Sustainable urban development is development that meets the needs of the present without
compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It involves creating
urban spaces that are environmentally responsible, economically viable, and socially inclusive.
Sustainable urban development includes creating resilient cities that can cope with challenges
like climate change, resource depletion, and population growth.

Key Elements:

Green Buildings: Environmentally friendly construction practices focus on energy-efficient

designs, use of sustainable materials, and integration of renewable energy sources. Green
buildings reduce the consumption of natural resources, such as water and energy, and minimize
the release of pollutants into the environment.

Efficient Public Transport: Accessible, low-emission transit systems help reduce traffic
congestion, air pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. Public transportation systems such as
electric buses, light rail, and bike-sharing programs are essential in creating sustainable, livable
cities.

Waste Reduction: Minimizing waste through recycling, composting, and sustainable waste
management practices is critical. Cities are implementing zero-waste strategies to minimize
landfill use, promote circular economies, and reduce the environmental impact of waste.

Key Takeaway:
Sustainable urban development creates cities that are livable, eco-friendly, and resilient,
balancing growth with environmental responsibility. It emphasizes the importance of integrating
environmental, economic, and social factors in urban planning to ensure long-term
sustainability.

2.3 Challenges of Urban Growth

Population Density:
As cities grow, population density increases, putting additional strain on existing infrastructure
and services. High population density leads to challenges in providing adequate housing,
healthcare, education, and transportation. Overcrowded cities can result in slums and informal
settlements where access to basic services is limited, contributing to inequality and social
unrest.

Resource Depletion:
Rapid urbanization leads to the depletion of essential resources. As cities expand, the demand
for water, energy, and land intensifies. Urban areas often consume more resources than they
can replenish, leading to over-extraction of groundwater, deforestation, and the loss of arable
land. Sustainable resource management is critical to ensure that cities can meet the needs of
growing populations without depleting natural resources.

Pollution:
Urban growth results in increased industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and waste generation.
Improper waste disposal, poor air quality, and contamination of water sources contribute to
significant health problems. Pollution from construction activities, traffic congestion, and
industrial production impacts the environment, particularly in rapidly developing urban centers.

Key Takeaway:
Effective urban planning and sustainable practices are essential to managing the pressures of
population growth, conserving resources, and reducing pollution. Cities must invest in green
infrastructure, promote renewable energy, and develop strategies to reduce waste and
emissions.

Conclusion

Recap:
As cities expand and urbanization continues, the impact of climate change on urban areas
becomes increasingly evident. The challenges of rising greenhouse gas emissions, resource
depletion, pollution, and social inequality require immediate action. Sustainable urban
development is essential to create cities that can thrive in the face of these challenges while
protecting the environment for future generations.

Key Takeaway:
Sustainable urban development is not just a choice but a necessity. By adopting green
practices, promoting renewable energy, and investing in resilient infrastructure, cities can
reduce their environmental footprint and build a more sustainable, equitable future.

Call to Action:
The time to act is now. Governments, businesses, and individuals must work together to
implement sustainable practices in urban development. Only through collective efforts can we
create cities that are both livable and sustainable for generations to come.

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