Natural World Heritage Sites (NWHS) are at risk from extreme climate events. A recent study published in December 2024 marks the vulnerability of these sites under various emission scenarios. The research, conducted by Peking University and the Chinese Academy of Sciences, assessed 250 NWHSs globally. The findings indicate that by 2100, nearly all these sites will experience extreme climate events, particularly under high-emission scenarios.
About Natural World Heritage Sites
Natural World Heritage Sites are areas recognised for their Outstanding Universal Value. They are crucial for biodiversity and conservation efforts. These sites include national parks, forests, and unique ecosystems. Their preservation is vital for future generations and ecological balance.
Extreme Climate Events and Their Effects
Extreme climate events include heatwaves, heavy rainfall, and droughts. The study found that extreme heat is the most prevalent event affecting NWHSs. By 2100, nearly all sites will face extreme heat exposure. This increase is attributed to rising greenhouse gas emissions.
High-Emission Scenarios
Under the highest emission scenario (SSP585), 99.2% of NWHSs will experience extreme heat. The study outlines various scenarios, showing a direct correlation between emissions and the frequency of extreme events. Lower emissions could mitigate these impacts .
Geographical Vulnerability
The study identified 14 NWHSs requiring urgent attention, particularly in tropical regions. Six of these sites are located in Africa. These areas are already experiencing rising temperatures and biodiversity loss. The identified sites include Lake Turkana National Parks and Mount Kenya National Park.
Compound Extreme Climate Events
NWHSs are not only exposed to single extreme events but also to compound events. These occur when multiple extreme conditions happen simultaneously. Under the SSP370 scenario, 31.2% of NWHSs will face such compound events. This poses challenges for their conservation.
Historical Context and Future Projections
From 2000 to 2015, 44.8% of NWHSs experienced extreme heat events. Projections indicate that this figure will increase dramatically under high-emission scenarios. The historical data shows a concerning trend that marks the urgency of addressing climate change.
Human Activities and Climate Change
Human activities exacerbate the threats to NWHSs. Mining, tourism, and logging contribute to environmental degradation. Climate change, coupled with these activities, poses a dual threat to the preservation of these heritage sites.
Global Climate Goals and Heritage Protection
Achieving the temperature targets set by the Paris Agreement is crucial. If met, these targets could reduce the exposure of NWHSs to extreme climate events. Sustainable practices and carbon neutrality can aid in protecting these valuable sites, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 11.4.
Threatened Sites and Conservation Efforts
Currently, 16 NWHSs are on the List of World Heritage in Danger. Climate change is the fastest-growing threat. Authorities must develop strategies to address both climate pressures and human interference to safeguard these sites.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the importance of preserving Natural World Heritage Sites in the context of global biodiversity.
- Critically examine the role of human activities in exacerbating climate change effects on natural heritage sites.
- Explain the concept of compound extreme climate events and their implications for conservation efforts.
- With suitable examples, discuss the relationship between climate change and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Answer Hints:
1. Discuss the importance of preserving Natural World Heritage Sites in the context of global biodiversity.
- NWHSs are recognized for their Outstanding Universal Value, crucial for global biodiversity.
- They serve as habitats for diverse species, contributing to ecological balance.
- Preservation of these sites aids in conservation efforts, protecting endangered species.
- NWHSs provide ecosystem services that benefit human populations, such as clean air and water.
- Loss of biodiversity in these sites can lead to irreversible ecological damage, affecting global ecosystems.
2. Critically examine the role of human activities in exacerbating climate change effects on natural heritage sites.
- Human activities such as mining, tourism, and logging lead to habitat destruction and degradation.
- These activities increase greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to climate change.
- Unsustainable tourism can strain local ecosystems, increasing vulnerability to climate extremes.
- Pollution from human activities affects the health of biodiversity in NWHSs.
- Addressing human impacts is essential for effective conservation and climate resilience.
3. Explain the concept of compound extreme climate events and their implications for conservation efforts.
- Compound extreme climate events occur when multiple extreme weather conditions happen simultaneously.
- These events, such as heatwaves combined with heavy rainfall, pose greater risks than single events.
- They complicate conservation strategies, making it harder to protect biodiversity effectively.
- NWHSs may face simultaneous threats, leading to severe ecological impacts and habitat loss.
- About and preparing for these events is crucial for adaptive management in conservation efforts.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the relationship between climate change and the Sustainable Development Goals.
- Climate change directly impacts Sustainable Development Goal 13 – Climate Action.
- Preserving NWHSs aligns with Goal 15 – Life on Land, promoting biodiversity and ecosystem health.
- Climate change threatens cultural and natural heritage, affecting Goal 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities.
- Examples include Lake Turkana National Parks, where climate impacts threaten local communities and biodiversity.
- Achieving Paris Agreement targets can help meet multiple SDGs, emphasizing the interconnectedness of climate action and sustainable development.
