ArcGIS Story map: Middle East combating climate change

Throughout Cairo's coastal borders, there have been reports and evidence of infrastructure and beaches wiped out due to Coastal erosion, this is due to the rising sea levels. This isn't just happening on the Egyptian coastline but across the Arabian and California coastlines. Higher sea levels, also greatly contribute to more frequent flooding for residents living near the coastlines and the loss of mangroves and coral reefs, which provide healthy ecosystems and act as natural shields against storm surges. Flooding makes these areas uninhabitable and communities may have to emigrate to a safer place

Countries living closer to coastal borders are much more at risk of flooding and have now started adding sand or other sediments to help restore and reinforce the land. Elevating areas meters above the ground and adding more defensive structures such as breakwaters would greatly slow down and protect from coastal erosion which cities like Jeddah and Cairo are very at risk to.

Mangroves are coastal forests that reside above the water and are natural barriers that absorb the water and wave energy. Growing these Mangroves near coastal communities will absorb the wave energy as well as pollutants inside the water. It's proven that these mangroves can reduce the risk of damaging waves by 66% and reduce flooding by 90%

Air pollution and smog are major environmental issues affecting Cairo due to their large population of over 22 million people, in comparison their are only 3 million people in Toronto. Across the middle east the air quality is considered unhealthy as their average between 70-140 AQI (Air quality Index) this can lead to respiratory problems for young people, as 75% of their population is under 25; breathing in this air will have long term effects. Air pollution can have economic impacts, including increased healthcare costs, less workers and damage to infrastructure such as pipelines that will degrade and will lead to contaminated water such as the Nile river.

Enforcing Carbon tax would greatly decrease emissions as their are countless of factories emit millions of tonnes each year without any setbacks and only profit. Also encouraging adapting to new and more environmental friendly technologies. Improve and expand public transportation to reduce the reliance on vehicles. This can include investing in metro systems and other forms of transit. By providing alternatives to private car use, emissions from traffic can be significantly reduced and minimized.

Enforce regulations against illegal dumping and littering. Implement fines and penalties for individuals and businesses found disposing of waste improperly. This can discourage irresponsible waste disposal and promote a sense of responsibility among the population. Implement waste segregation programs to encourage residents and businesses to separate recyclable materials from waste. Build recycling facilities to process and reuse materials like paper, plastic, glass, and metal. This not only reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills and thrown into bodies of water, but also conserves resources.

Heatwaves are periods of excessively hot weather, and this is a common extreme weather issue in the Jeddah and Egypt. High temperatures can have various impacts, including heat-strokes, stress on infrastructure, and challenges for agriculture and water resources, 50% of egypt's food is imported due to their climate and lots of the tap water isn't filtered properly the lakes and bodies of water being polluted. Extreme weather events can disrupt essential services such as power, transportation, and communication such as rainfall or sand storms. These events can reduce visibility, damage crops, and add to air quality issues. They are often caused by strong winds and can impact activities. The Middle East, including Egypt, has experienced a rise in average temperatures over the past few decades. This warming trend is consistent with global patterns associated with climate change. Climate change has been linked to an increase in the frequency, duration, and intensity of heatwaves. The Middle East, already known for its hot climate, has witnessed extreme heat events.

Transitioning to renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, can significantly to mitigating climate change by reducing needs on fossil fuels. In the Middle East, where sunlight is always out, solar energy holds great potential. Governments and company's can invest in large-scale solar power projects and incentivize the use of solar technologies for communities and work purposes. This not only helps in reducing carbon emissions but also enhances energy security and creates job opportunities in the renewable energy sector, enlarging their economy at the same time.

Given the dry and semi-arid climate of the Middle East, water scarcity is a critical issue caused by climate change. Implementing efficient water conservation and management practices is needed for survival. Investing in technologies for desalination, water recycling, and improving irrigation efficiency in agriculture. Additionally, the promotion of water-saving practices at the individual and community levels, as well as the development of drought-resistant crops, can enhance the region's resilience to changing climate conditions.

The effects of climate change on Cairo, Mecca, and Jeddah are evident through various ongoing problems such as rising sea levels, heatwaves, water scarcity and droughts, air pollution, and extreme weather events. Mitigating these issues requires a comprehensive approach that includes reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing infrastructure resilience, promoting sustainable agriculture, and fostering international collaboration on climate initiatives. It is essential for policymakers, communities, and individuals to prioritize climate change adaptation and mitigation measures to protect the environment, ensure public health, and secure a sustainable future for these cities.

Sources:  https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/opinion/2022/04/19/-egypt-acting-against-climate-change-for-a-healthier-more-prosperous-future   https://www.egypttoday.com/Article/1/128944/Egypt%E2%80%99s-role-in-mitigating-climate-change-impacts-from-COP27-to   https://www.eeaa.gov.eg/Uploads/Topics/Files/20221206130720583.pdf