China is severely impacted by global warming. The country is the most populous in the world and the largest emitter of greenhouse gasses. If it doesn’t reduce its carbon emissions in the next decade, it is projected to face one of the worst heat-waves historically. Heat waves bring severe impacts, notably excessive deaths to infants and the elderly. They also carry economic and social impacts such as insufficient crop yields. Air conditioning is the main source of relief; in fact, more air conditioners are used in China than in any other country.
Droughts are becoming increasingly frequent in China due to climate change. They are the leading cause of the country’s water shortages and agricultural deficiencies. The president and other leaders have recognized their contribution to climate change, however, and are attempting to combat it. As droughts continue to increase the overall temperature of the country, farmers spray their crops and drain wells.
Due to the effects of climate change floods are also on the rise in China; this year thus far, the country received its highest amount of rainfall in 50 years. As a result, over 80,000people evacuated their homes and crops were severely damaged. As recorded, rainfall accumulations during the week of the flood were 50% higher than previous years and the highest since 1961. Buildings were inundated and people were rescued with inflatable swimming pools.
https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2019/06/how-china-s-sponge-cities-are-preparing-for-sea-level-rise/
Sea level rise is another effect of climate change in China. Rising sea levels are dangerous because they lead to coastal erosion, among other things. Discouragingly, parts of China may soon disappear from the map and water-borne animals will have to adapt to rising temperatures or face extinction. Nonetheless, the Chinese government is aware of the rising sea levels, so cities are now being built on higher grounds. Additionally, people are being relocated from areas of high flood and rising sea levels, cities are being built to absorb water, and walls are being built around them for protection.
Climate change is also one of the main causes of storms in China. Storms are increasing in frequency as temperatures and sea levels continue to rise.
Famine is a profound effect of climate change that may ultimately impact China. Extremely hot, dry temperatures and irregular weather patterns will destroy coastal habitats and affect agricultural productivity resulting in food shortages.
References:
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/06/29/world/asia/china-drought.html
https://www.voanews.com/east-asia-pacific/heavy-rain-flooding-china-force-evacuation-nearly-80000
https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2019/06/how-china-s-sponge-cities-are-preparing-for-sea-level-rise/
https://www.cnn.com/2018/08/01/asia/china-climate-heatwaves/index.html
References from CNN
References from watchers.news
