Lesson 6: Climate Change and Cambodia: Adaptation and Mitigation

Lesson 6: Cambodia in the Balance: Climate Change Impacts and Our Response

Welcome, climate champions! 🌍🌱

Today, we confront one of the most pressing challenges of our time: climate change. Cambodia, with its unique geography and vulnerable communities, is already experiencing the effects of this global crisis. In this lesson, we’ll delve into the specific impacts of climate change on Cambodia, explore strategies for adaptation and mitigation, and discuss the role our nation can play in global climate action. Let’s become informed, empowered, and proactive in tackling this crucial issue!

Part 1: The Changing Climate in Cambodia

1. Investigating the Impacts:
   • Research:
     • Divide into groups and research the specific effects of climate change on Cambodia. Consider:
       • Rising sea levels and coastal erosion
       • Extreme weather events (floods, droughts, storms)
       • Changes in rainfall patterns and agricultural productivity
       • Threats to biodiversity and ecosystems
       • Impacts on human health and livelihoods
     • Utilize credible sources such as scientific reports, government publications, and news articles.
     • Gather data, statistics, and case studies to support your findings.
   • Presentation:
     • Present your research to the class, highlighting the most significant impacts of climate change on Cambodia.
     • Use visuals (photos, maps, graphs) to illustrate your points and make your presentation engaging.

Part 2: Adaptation and Mitigation: A Two-Pronged Approach

1. Adaptation Strategies:

   • Discussion:
     • What can individuals, communities, and the government do to adapt to the changing climate?
     • Brainstorm a list of adaptation strategies, such as:
       • Building resilient infrastructure
       • Developing drought-resistant crops
       • Improving early warning systems for natural disasters
       • Promoting water conservation and efficient irrigation
       • Relocating vulnerable communities
   • Role-play (Optional):
     • Divide into groups and create role-play scenarios where different stakeholders (e.g., farmers, fishermen, government officials) discuss and implement adaptation strategies in their communities.

2. Mitigation Strategies:

   • Discussion:
     • What can Cambodia do to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change?
     • Brainstorm a list of mitigation strategies, such as:
       • Investing in renewable energy sources (solar, wind, hydro)
       • Improving energy efficiency in buildings and transportation
       • Promoting sustainable agriculture and forestry practices
       • Raising awareness and education about climate change

Part 3: Cambodia’s Role in Global Climate Action

1. Debate:

   • Divide and Conquer: Split the class into two groups.
     • One group will argue that Cambodia should take a more active role in global climate action.
     • The other group will argue that Cambodia’s priority should be adapting to the immediate impacts of climate change.
   • Research and Prepare: Each group will research and prepare arguments to support their position, considering Cambodia’s economic and political context, as well as its international commitments.
   • Debate Structure: Engage in a structured debate, presenting your arguments clearly and respectfully.

2. Policy Proposal:

   • Collaborative Project: As a class, develop a policy proposal outlining concrete steps that the Cambodian government can take to address climate change.
   • Presentation: Present your proposal to a panel of “experts” (e.g., teachers, community leaders, environmentalists) and receive feedback.

Did You Know? Cambodia is highly vulnerable to climate change, with coastal areas at risk from rising sea levels and agricultural productivity threatened by droughts and floods.

Your Turn!

Climate change is a global challenge that requires collective action. By understanding the impacts, exploring solutions, and advocating for change, you can contribute to building a more sustainable and resilient future for Cambodia and the planet.