Skip navigation

Environment


Overview

Question:

How is the climate changing? How will our water, energy or food sources change by 2030? What other future environmental challenges might we face?


Submit Trends:http://crowdsensor.mit.edu/trends/2016/environment
Rules:All entrants must agree to the Crowdsensor rules and Terms of Use
Deadline: Friday, September 30 at 11:59:59 PM Singapore Time

 

 

Background

Global temperatures have been steadily increasing since the industrial revolution, and countries around the world have been taking steps to mitigate the impact that human activity is having on the world’s climate. Despite our efforts, February 2016 was recorded as the hottest month in history, with temperatures 1.2C above the pre-industrial average. These changes force us to rethink how cities will have to be designed in the future, both to accommodate  a very different environment and ensure they are built in a sustainable way.

As a result of temperature increases, sea levels are rising as well. The global sea level rose about 7 inches in the last century, and is predicted to rise by as much as 10 feet by 2065 and 20 feet by 2100. The climate is also becoming more extreme, with the number and severity of weather events such as droughts or hurricanes increasing. Previously fertile farming lands around the world are becoming more arid, reducing potential sources of food.

As a low-lying, 278 square mile island situated on the equator, Singapore has much to worry about the prospect of climate change. Projected sea level rises of 10 feet would flood the majority of the nation, beginning with the financial district which lines the southern coast. Already-high temperatures could become even higher, without the recourse to move to alternative latitudes. Singapore must consider the environment very carefully as it undertakes its efforts to become a Smart Nation.

Resources for Trend Authors

See this Sample Trend in the Technology Category for an example of how a completed trend submission might look.