Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
gradient and stability can then be identifi ed and, if necessary,
engineering to ameliorate conditions and reduce hazards can
be carried out prior to construction work. Specifi c additional
problems are associated with particular environments, such as the
thawing of permafrost under roads in periglacial regions and the
salt weathering of concrete in arid lands.
Another example relates to the impacts of climate change in
the marginal environments that are most susceptible. In the
African Sahel, enhanced global warming with a slight increase
in the frequency or severity of droughts is likely to be far more
disastrous than the same effect in an area with greater moisture
availability. The major issue of desertifi cation is strongly related
to such changes, though human factors are also centrally involved.
Similarly, the sea-level rise in the order of 50 centimetres that may
occur over the next few decades is of greatest relevance on low
coasts (such as deltas or coral islands), especially in developing
countries, where the people are less able to adapt in the face of
such natural hazards. The breadth of physical geography ensures
it is useful in diverse ways, but perhaps it is most useful when
physical geographers apply their knowledge, understanding, and
techniques in collaboration with other scientists and with human
geographers.
The roles of physical geography
It is possible, therefore, to view physical geography as playing
three fundamental roles. First, it contributes its distinctive
spatial perspective to gaining knowledge and understanding
of each of the component parts of the landscape. This role is
clearly the driving force of its specialisms. Second, it explores the
interconnections between those components, relying upon a more
holistic approach to the landscape than any other science. This is
perhaps the core role of physical geography as an entity. Third, it
has the interface between the natural environment and people as
