Geographical features such as mountains, rivers, forests, deserts, and ice caps form the foundation of Earth’s natural systems. These features influence weather, biodiversity, and human settlements while providing critical resources. However, recent decades have witnessed significant changes in these critical geographical features due to natural processes and human activities.

Global warming, driven by human-induced emissions, has accelerated these changes. According to the IPCC, average global temperatures have risen by 1.1°C since the late 19th century. This has triggered the melting of polar ice caps and glaciers. For instance, the Arctic has lost nearly 40% of its summer ice cover since the 1970s, leading to rising sea levels and threatening coastal cities like Bangkok, Dhaka, and Jakarta.

Water bodies, such as the Aral Sea, have shrunk by over 90% due to water diversion, while rivers like the Ganges-Brahmaputra Delta face reduced flow and saltwater intrusion due to rising seas. Similarly, coral reefs, vital for marine biodiversity, are under severe threat. The Great Barrier Reef has lost nearly 50% of its coral cover since the 1990s due to bleaching caused by ocean warming.

Terrestrial ecosystems are equally affected. The Amazon rainforest has lost 17% of its cover in the past 50 years, endangering biodiversity and increasing carbon emissions. Deforestation and habitat loss have pushed many species toward extinction; global wildlife populations have declined by 68% since 1970 (WWF).

These changes have far-reaching consequences:

1.Food and Water Security: Erratic rainfall and shrinking water bodies impact agriculture and livelihoods.

2.Displacement: Rising sea levels and desertification force migration, particularly in densely populated regions like South Asia.

3.Biodiversity Loss: Shrinking habitats disrupt ecosystems, leading to species extinction and ecosystem collapse.