Managing climate change — Paper 2 · A Level Environmental Management (AS only) 8291

4 Fig. 4.1 is a series of photographs showing changes in the Grinnell Glacier, Montana, USA, between the years 1938 and 1998. 1938 1981 1998 Fig. 4.1 (a) Suggest how human activities might have led to the loss of the ice store shown in Fig. 4.1. [10] (b) Assess the impact of international protocols on the loss of natural water stores. Describe the difficulties in achieving such agreements. [30] [Total: 40]

40 marks

Mark scheme: 4(a) Global warming leading to climate change, resulting in an increase in average yearly temperatures, which has led to loss of ice over the decades and the glacier retreating. Melting rate has increased in recent years. Shrinking size of lake at foot of glacier. Some reference to increase in open water as ice retreats from the lake. Linked to human activities such as deforestation, increased burning of fossil fuels especially in vehicles, decomposition in landfills increasing, increased agriculture. Pollution from soot deposits from vehicles has reduced the reflective nature of the ice making melting more likely. Some mention of erosion due to tourist / climbing activity is relevant Please use level descriptors 1 10 4(b) The question requirements are: • To show understanding of the causes of water store loss • To explain the range of different water stores and how they are affected • To explain the problems in reaching international agreements Water stores are lost because of climate change leading to melting of glaciers, reduced precipitation preventing groundwater and aquifers from replenishing and deforestation increasing run-off and flooding. Increasing population also leads to reduction through over-use, increased demand and waste. Human activity pollutes the water stores. Pollution crosses international boundaries and so do water resources such as rivers. Consequently, internationally agreed protocols are vital to begin reducing the rate of water loss and begin the reversal process. Political, financial and water-wealth issues affect the chances of reaching agreement. These include the demands of rising populations, industrial development, territorial ambitions and the availability of potable water. Reference to existing international protocols aimed at reducing emissions and rein in climate change. Description of the difficulties in obtaining agreements and comment on potential effects if able to reduce loss of water stores Please use level descriptors 2 30

This question in 8291/21 May/June 2019

3 Fig. 3.1 is an extract from an article. Arctic sea ice at minimum extent 06/12/2016 Scientists at the National Snow and Ice Data Centre (NSIDC) said that there was a reduction in the extent of Arctic sea ice for a short time in November, calling this an ‘almost unprecedented’ event. Sea ice decreased by around 50,000 km2 in this period, mainly in the Barents Sea. This removed an area of ice larger than Denmark from the Arctic at a time of year when sea ice is usually increasing. Fig. 3.1 (a) Describe the possible causes and effects of the change in the extent of the sea ice outlined in Fig. 3.1. [10] (b) Assess the success of international protocols, such as Kyoto, in managing the biosphere. [30] [Total: 40]

40 marks

Mark scheme: 3(a) Causes Increased release of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane lead to increased global temperature, which causes the arctic temperature to rise and thus reduces sea ice formation. The loss of ice reduces the albedo effect so more absorption increases sea temperature and increases the effect. Increased soot deposition also has a similar effect. As the volume of ice decreases ocean currents and climate are affected hastening the changes. Effects Reduction in volume and thickness of ice as well as the area of ocean covered by ice. Loss and change of habitat affecting species, e.g. polar bears. Spread of diseases between species previously separated is also an issue. Human activities affected by change in traditional lifestyles, access to sea passages and potential for mineral deposits including oil. Rising sea levels led to coastal inundation, salinization, flooding and disruption. please use level descriptors 1 10 Question Answer Marks 3(b) The question requirements are: • to show understanding of international protocols • to describe how international protocols are agreed and why they are needed • to assess the success of named international protocols. Indicative content: The main agreement is the united nations framework convention on climate change (UNFCCC) which was adopted at Rio in 1992. Kyoto followed to establish a period of reduction and this was extended by the Doha amendment. Paris followed in 2015. Pollution crosses international boundaries so cooperation and agreement are needed to control the effects – climate change. The impact of climate change varies from country to country, e.g. changing sea levels. The contribution to climate change is connected to level of economic development including reliance on fossil fuels or renewable resources for power. International protocols are hard to agree and enforce. The first agreements only applied to developed countries and had little of the desired effect regarding climate change reduction. Later agreements included the developing countries but didn’t require signing, e.g. Kyoto which wasn’t signed by the USA. Subsequent agreements are under pressure, e.g. USA may pull out of Paris. Monitoring is a politically sensitive issue. please use level descriptors 2 30

This question in 8291/21 Oct/Nov 2019

4 Fig. 4.1 is a graph of average Arctic sea ice extent for March each year from 1979 – 2019. 17.0 16.5 16.0 average sea ice 15.5 extent / millions km2 15.0 14.5 14.0 1980 1984 1988 1992 1996 2000 2004 2008 2012 2016 2020 year Fig. 4.1 (a) Describe and explain the changes in Arctic sea ice extent shown in Fig. 4.1. [10] (b) Using examples, evaluate the success of different international protocols in managing environmental change. [30] [Total: 40]

40 marks

Mark scheme: 4(a) Over time there is a general decrease in Arctic sea ice in March from 64 / million km2 to 14.5 / million km2 making a loss of approximately 50 / million km2. Representing a percentage loss of approximately 78%. The readings fluctuate from year to year with some significant variations (falls and rises) especially in 2004. Increasing temperatures as a result of human enhanced greenhouse effect lead to the melting of the sea ice. Gases such as carbon dioxide and methane accumulate in the atmosphere and contribute to rising temperature. Ocean temperatures are also increasing. Loss of sea ice affects the albedo further contributing to climate change. Generally decreasing. From 16.4 to 14.6 million km2. Fluctuations each year. Global warming explained. Fluctuations due to seasonal variations. 4(b) The question requirements are: • demonstrate knowledge of the international protocols • show understanding of the difficulty in achieving and monitoring the protocols • assess the relative success of chosen examples. Indicative content: Candidates should use a range of examples which could include Montreal (ozone and CFCs), Kyoto (carbon dioxide emissions) and Paris (climate change). More recent declarations are also valid. Understanding the need to reduce carbon dioxide and methane releases as well as other related policies. The difficulties in getting agreement between countries of differing levels of income, with different environmental policies and priorities, and different political ideologies as well as the problems of monitoring and enforcing these between borders and countries. Assessment of the relative success should be made. 30 please use level descriptors 1 please use level descriptors 2

This question in 8291/21 Oct/Nov 2021

4 Fig. 4.1 shows sea level change using estimates from the past, actual records and predictions for the future. 500 estimates records predictions 400 300 sea level 200 change / mm 100 0 –100 –200 1800 1850 1900 1950 2000 2050 2100 year Fig. 4.1 (a) Describe and explain the data trends in the estimates, actual records and predictions shown in Fig. 4.1. [10] (b) To what extent are international protocols successful in managing the causes of sea level change? Use examples to support your answer. [30] [Total: 40]

40 marks

Mark scheme: 4(a) The estimates of the past are broad and relatively flat, because they are based on little evidence and taken from journals and amateur observations. Hence, they are rather generalised. The instrumental record is narrower in range because they are based on scientific records gathered using specialised recording instruments which, as time progresses, are more accurate so the band narrows. The projections for the future are based on educated calculations but as time increases, they become less accurate so the band broadens. Overall the trend is upwards. 4(b) The question requirements are: • demonstrate knowledge of the international protocols • show understanding of the difficulty in achieving and monitoring the protocols • assess the relative success of chosen examples. Indicative content: Candidates should use a range of examples which could include Montreal, Kyoto and Paris. More recent declarations are also valid. Understanding the need to reduce carbon dioxide and methane releases as well as other related policies in order to slow the climate change resulting from these emissions. Candidates need to refer to rising sea levels and other influences such as melting glaciers and polar ice. The difficulties in getting agreement between countries of differing levels of economic development, environmental policies and political ideologies as well as the problems of monitoring and enforcing these between borders and countries. Assessment of the relative success should be made. 30 please use level descriptors 1 please use level descriptors 2

This question in 8291/22 Oct/Nov 2021

4 Fig. 4.1 is a graph of average Arctic sea ice extent for March each year from 1979 – 2019. 17.0 16.5 16.0 average sea ice 15.5 extent / millions km2 15.0 14.5 14.0 1980 1984 1988 1992 1996 2000 2004 2008 2012 2016 2020 year Fig. 4.1 (a) Describe and explain the changes in Arctic sea ice extent shown in Fig. 4.1. [10] (b) Using examples, evaluate the success of different international protocols in managing environmental change. [30] [Total: 40]

40 marks

Mark scheme: 4(a) Over time there is a general decrease in Arctic sea ice in March from 64 / million km2 to 14.5 / million km2 making a loss of approximately 50 / million km2. Representing a percentage loss of approximately 78%. The readings fluctuate from year to year with some significant variations (falls and rises) especially in 2004. Increasing temperatures as a result of human enhanced greenhouse effect lead to the melting of the sea ice. Gases such as carbon dioxide and methane accumulate in the atmosphere and contribute to rising temperature. Ocean temperatures are also increasing. Loss of sea ice affects the albedo further contributing to climate change. Generally decreasing. From 16.4 to 14.6 million km2. Fluctuations each year. Global warming explained. Fluctuations due to seasonal variations. 4(b) The question requirements are: • demonstrate knowledge of the international protocols • show understanding of the difficulty in achieving and monitoring the protocols • assess the relative success of chosen examples. Indicative content: Candidates should use a range of examples which could include Montreal (ozone and CFCs), Kyoto (carbon dioxide emissions) and Paris (climate change). More recent declarations are also valid. Understanding the need to reduce carbon dioxide and methane releases as well as other related policies. The difficulties in getting agreement between countries of differing levels of income, with different environmental policies and priorities, and different political ideologies as well as the problems of monitoring and enforcing these between borders and countries. Assessment of the relative success should be made. 30 please use level descriptors 1 please use level descriptors 2

This question in 8291/23 Oct/Nov 2021

1 Fig. 1.1 is a map of Singapore, Southeast Asia. Singapore is comprised of 63 islands, with a total surface area of land of 721.5 km2. N Malaysia Singapore Strait Singapore Indonesia 0 10 km Key capital airport international boundary Fig. 1.1 In 2020, the population of Singapore was 5 850 000. (a) Singapore has a high population density. (i) Calculate the population density for Singapore in 2020. … people km–2 [1] (ii) Explain the challenges that a high population density can cause a country. … … … … … … [3] (b) Fig. 1.2 shows the population pyramid for Singapore in 2020. male age range female 100 + 95-99 90-94 85-89 80-84 75-79 70-74 65-69 60-64 55-59 50-54 45-49 40-44 35-39 30-34 25-29 20-24 15-19 10-14 5-9 0-4 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.1 0 0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 population / million Fig. 1.2 (i) Compare the population structure of males and females in Singapore. … … … … … … … … [4] (ii) Suggest how this population pyramid indicates that Singapore has an economy of a high income country (HIC). … … … … [2] (c) Suggest why Singapore is at high risk from the effects of climate change. Give reasons for your answer. … … … … [2] (d) Solar radiation management (SRM) is a theoretical strategy to reduce the impact of climate change. (i) One SRM strategy is to spray sulfate aerosol particles into the stratosphere. Explain how this could reduce the impact of climate change. … … … … [2] (ii) Suggest why some scientists think investing in technology to reduce the combustion of fossil fuels is more important than investing in SRM technology. … … … … [2] [Total: 16]

16 marks

Mark scheme: Question Answer Marks 1(a)(i) 8108(.108108); 1 1(a)(ii) any three from: 3 limited land area to accommodate people / not enough houses; overcrowding; leads to spread of disease / named disease (more quickly); limited land area for infrastructure / roads; leads to increased house prices / land prices / negative economic impact on population; not enough jobs available; high level of car use / factory emissions; leads to congestion; leads to air pollution / acid rain / global warming / smog; effect of stated air pollution, e.g. acidification of lakes / climate change; limited green spaces / limited agricultural land / high level of urbanisation; leads to food shortages; leads to water shortages / water pollution; waste management; AVP; 1(b)(i) any four from: 4 (approximately) equal numbers / same trend; more females in older age / more females aged 70+ / woman live longer; more females in, working age / 15–39 age; no males in 100+ age range; 1(b)(ii) any two from: 2 high life expectancy / people live a long time / taller (than LIC); high(er) number of older dependents (than LIC); low(er) number of young dependents (than LIC); high(er) number of economically active (than LIC); indicates low birth / death rate; 1(c) any two from: 2 island / surrounded by sea; at risk from flooding; change in ocean / wind circulation; increased ocean temperatures lead to extreme weather events; high population density / limited land area: food / energy / water insecurity; 1(d)(i) (small amounts of) inbound sunlight are reflected back (into space); 2 cools planet / reduces global temperatures / reduces speed of climate change; 1(d)(ii) any two from: 2 combustion of fossil fuels produces, greenhouse gases / carbon dioxide; idea that SRM: does not reduce greenhouse gases / only deals with symptom not the problem / may only work for a short period / not a long-term solution; SRM: untested theory / might have negative effect, e.g. effect on ozone layer / health impact;

This question in 8291/21 Oct/Nov 2022

1 Fig. 1.1 is a map of Mongolia. Mongolia has a total land area of 1 560 000 km2. N RUSSIA CHINA Ulaanbaatar MONGOLIA CHINA Desert Gobi 0 200 km Key capital international boundary Fig. 1.1 In 2020, the population of Mongolia was 3 170 000. (a) Mongolia has a low population density. (i) Calculate the population density for Mongolia in 2020. … people km–2 [1] (ii) Explain the challenges faced by countries with a low population density. … … … … … … … … [4] (b) Fig. 1.2 shows the age dependency ratio in Mongolia from 1960 to 2018. 110 100 90 80 age dependency ratio 70 60 50 40 1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 year Fig. 1.2 The higher the ratio, the larger the dependent population compared to the working-age population. A ratio of 100 indicates that the number of dependents is exactly the same as the number of working-age people. Describe the trend shown by the data in Fig. 1.2. … … … … … … [3] (c) Fig. 1.3 shows the population pyramid for Mongolia in 2020. age male range female 100+ 95–99 90–94 85–89 80–84 75–79 70–74 65–69 60–64 55–59 50–54 45–49 40–44 35–39 30–34 25–29 20–24 15–19 10–14 5–9 0–4 0.2 0.15 0.1 0.05 0 0 0.05 0.1 0.15 0.2 population / million Fig. 1.3 Suggest how the shape of the population pyramid for Mongolia in 1975 was different from the 2020 shape. Give reasons for your answer. … … … … [2] (d) The Gobi Desert in Mongolia is a cold desert. Describe the climate of a cold desert biome in winter and in summer. winter … … summer … … [3] (e) The photograph in Fig. 1.4 shows an area of desert during primary succession. Fig. 1.4 (i) Suggest how the pioneer species in Fig. 1.4 colonised this area of desert. … … … … [2] (ii) Suggest the characteristics of the pioneer species in Fig. 1.4. … … … … [2] (iii) Explain how the death of pioneer species can lead to secondary succession. … … … … [2] (f) The total area of land in Mongolia is 1 560 000 km2. The area of this land covered by water in Mongolia is 10 560 km2. (i) Calculate the percentage of land area covered by water in Mongolia. percentage = … [1] (ii) Suggest why climate change can increase water insecurity in Mongolia. … … … … [2] (iii) Explain the impacts of water insecurity. … … … … … … … … [4] (g) Solar radiation management (SRM) is a theoretical strategy to reduce the impact of climate change. (i) One SRM strategy is the use of space reflectors. Outline how space reflectors could reduce the impact of climate change. … … … … [2] (ii) Suggest why some people think investing in SRM technology is more important than reducing our combustion of fossil fuels. … … [1] [Total: 29]

29 marks

Mark scheme: Question Answer Marks 1(a)(i) 2 / 2.03; 1 1(a)(ii) any four from: 4 difficult to find a partner / low marriage rates; leads to low birth rate; leads to population decline; fewer jobs in rural areas; leads to abandonment of, rural areas / agricultural land; leads to urbanisation; less economically active people / fall in GDP; less people to purchase products / services, reduces economy of country; lack of available healthcare / supply of goods / accessing amenities due to large distances between people; people have to travel large distances / transportation more costly / not enough transport available; less technological advancement / create ideas to boost economy; reduction in tourism; AVP; 1(b) any three from: 3 1960–1973: increasing age dependency ratio / decreasing number of working age people / increasing number of dependents; 1973–1975: age dependency ratio plateaus / just above 100 / number of dependents exactly the same / slightly higher than number of working-age people; 1975–2010: decreasing age dependency ratio / increasing number of working age people / decreasing number of dependents; 2010–2018: increasing age dependency ratio / decreasing number of working age people / increasing number of dependents; 1(c) any two from (for 1975): 2 narrower at old age / top; lower life expectancy; improved medical care in 2020; wider for young dependents / base; birth rate higher; 1(d) any three from: 3 winter long; cold / snowfall; temperature between –2 to –14 °C; lower rainfall; summer short; hot; low rainfall (higher than the winter); (moderately) warm summer; temperature between 21 to 26 °C; 1(e)(i) seeds / spores; 2 carried by wind / insects / animals / birds / humans; 1(e)(ii) any two from: 2 fungi / lichen; high stress tolerance / hardy / withstands harsh environment; grow quickly; tough outer layer; adapted to conserve water, e.g. waxy outer layer / spiny leaves; short / shallow roots; 1(e)(iii) any two from: 2 adds organic matter / humus; adds nutrients through decomposition; reduces competition / free up space; increases water holding capacity; 1(f)(i) 0.677 / 0.68 / 0.7; 1 1(f)(ii) any two from: 2 landlocked; few existing water sources; increased temperatures / global warming; leads to drought; climate change alters rainfall patterns; 1(f)(iii) any four from: 4 reduced crop yield / crop failure; livestock death; leads to food shortages / malnutrition / famine; leads to poverty / increase in cost of food; farmers lose income from their crops; reduced water for industrial processes / loss of manufactured goods; disrupts education (particularly girls) as take time out to collect water; dehydration from lack of water to drink; limited access to clean drinking water / forced to drink contaminated water; leads to water related illnesses / cholera / typhoid / diarrhoea; migration / refugees; 1(g)(i) mirrors in space / stratosphere; 2 reflect or reduce the amount of incoming solar radiation (reaching Earth); which reduces temperature of Earth’s surface / reduces greenhouse effect / reduces global warming; 1(g)(ii) any one from: 1 we can continue to use fossil fuels / no changes needed to our way of life; hard to reduce combustion of fossil fuels;

This question in 8291/22 Oct/Nov 2022

1 Fig. 1.1 is a map of Singapore, Southeast Asia. Singapore is comprised of 63 islands, with a total surface area of land of 721.5 km2. N Malaysia Singapore Strait Singapore Indonesia 0 10 km Key capital airport international boundary Fig. 1.1 In 2020, the population of Singapore was 5 850 000. (a) Singapore has a high population density. (i) Calculate the population density for Singapore in 2020. … people km–2 [1] (ii) Explain the challenges that a high population density can cause a country. … … … … … … [3] (b) Fig. 1.2 shows the population pyramid for Singapore in 2020. male age range female 100 + 95-99 90-94 85-89 80-84 75-79 70-74 65-69 60-64 55-59 50-54 45-49 40-44 35-39 30-34 25-29 20-24 15-19 10-14 5-9 0-4 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.1 0 0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 population / million Fig. 1.2 (i) Compare the population structure of males and females in Singapore. … … … … … … … … [4] (ii) Suggest how this population pyramid indicates that Singapore has an economy of a high income country (HIC). … … … … [2] (c) Suggest why Singapore is at high risk from the effects of climate change. Give reasons for your answer. … … … … [2] (d) Solar radiation management (SRM) is a theoretical strategy to reduce the impact of climate change. (i) One SRM strategy is to spray sulfate aerosol particles into the stratosphere. Explain how this could reduce the impact of climate change. … … … … [2] (ii) Suggest why some scientists think investing in technology to reduce the combustion of fossil fuels is more important than investing in SRM technology. … … … … [2] [Total: 16]

16 marks

Mark scheme: Question Answer Marks 1(a)(i) 8108(.108108); 1 1(a)(ii) any three from: 3 limited land area to accommodate people / not enough houses; overcrowding; leads to spread of disease / named disease (more quickly); limited land area for infrastructure / roads; leads to increased house prices / land prices / negative economic impact on population; not enough jobs available; high level of car use / factory emissions; leads to congestion; leads to air pollution / acid rain / global warming / smog; effect of stated air pollution, e.g. acidification of lakes / climate change; limited green spaces / limited agricultural land / high level of urbanisation; leads to food shortages; leads to water shortages / water pollution; waste management; AVP; 1(b)(i) any four from: 4 (approximately) equal numbers / same trend; more females in older age / more females aged 70+ / woman live longer; more females in, working age / 15–39 age; no males in 100+ age range; 1(b)(ii) any two from: 2 high life expectancy / people live a long time / taller (than LIC); high(er) number of older dependents (than LIC); low(er) number of young dependents (than LIC); high(er) number of economically active (than LIC); indicates low birth / death rate; 1(c) any two from: 2 island / surrounded by sea; at risk from flooding; change in ocean / wind circulation; increased ocean temperatures lead to extreme weather events; high population density / limited land area: food / energy / water insecurity; 1(d)(i) (small amounts of) inbound sunlight are reflected back (into space); 2 cools planet / reduces global temperatures / reduces speed of climate change; 1(d)(ii) any two from: 2 combustion of fossil fuels produces, greenhouse gases / carbon dioxide; idea that SRM: does not reduce greenhouse gases / only deals with symptom not the problem / may only work for a short period / not a long-term solution; SRM: untested theory / might have negative effect, e.g. effect on ozone layer / health impact;

This question in 8291/23 Oct/Nov 2022

1 (a) Spraying aerosols into the stratosphere and growing crops with shiny leaves are two geo-engineering methods that can counteract climate change. (i) Explain how spraying aerosols into the stratosphere can counteract climate change. … … … … [2] (ii) Explain how growing crops with shiny leaves can counteract climate change. … … … … [2] (b) Researchers use computer models to predict the impact of geo-engineering strategies on climate change. Table 1.1 is a summary of the findings. Table 1.1 impact global increased number of people geo-engineering strategy temperature floods and adversely impacted reduced droughts / billion spraying aerosols into the yes yes 3 stratosphere growing crops with shiny yes yes 1.4 leaves (i) Suggest how managing the Earth’s climate can result in increased floods and droughts. … … … … [2] (ii) Evaluate the use of the geo-engineering strategies in Table 1.1 for counteracting climate change. … … … … [2] (iii) Suggest what further research can be carried out to confirm the impact of the geo-engineering strategies in Table 1.1. … … [1] (c) A report predicted how rising sea levels will result in coastal flooding in 2050. Table 1.2 shows the number of people predicted to be affected by coastal flooding for five countries. Table 1.2 number of people country / million China 93 Bangladesh 42 India 36 Vietnam 31 Indonesia 23 Plot the data as a bar chart. [4] (d) Explain why flooding can lead to water insecurity. … … … … … … [3] (e) Explain why drought leads to food shortages and malnutrition. … … … … … … [3] (f) A report by the World Health Organization stated that malnutrition causes 35% of all deaths in under five-year-olds. Fig. 1.1 shows the percentage of under five-year-old children who are underweight. Key percentage of under five-year-old children who are underweight >30 20–29.9 10–19.9 <10 no data Tropic of Cancer Equator Tropic of Capricorn Fig. 1.1 Describe the distribution of under five-year-old children who are underweight, shown in Fig. 1.1. … … … … … … [3] [Total: 22]

22 marks

Mark scheme: Question Answer Marks 1(a)(i) any two from: 2 reflect (incoming) solar radiation / (sun)light, back into space; before it reaches the Earth’s surface; reduces global temperatures; 1(a)(ii) any two from: 2 increases, albedo / reflectivity (of plants / Earth’s surface); reflect (incoming) solar radiation / (sun)light, back into space; reduces global temperatures; 1(b)(i) any two from: 2 changed (wind/atmospheric) circulation; adverse effect on rainfall / too much rain / too little rain; changed temperatures; more extreme weather conditions e.g. hurricanes / storms / heatwaves; 1(b)(ii) any two from: 2 Positives: both strategies reduce global temperatures; Negatives: both strategies cause adverse effects e.g. floods / drought; many people adversely impacted (due to floods / droughts) e.g. relocation; more people adversely impacted by spraying aerosols than growing crops with shiny leaves / 3 billion (aerosols) versus 1.4 billion (shiny leaves); but need to fix climate change regardless of cost; 1(b)(iii) any one from: 1 laboratory / small scale testing; field testing; repeat the (computer) models with different parameters e.g. measure, humidity / greenhouse gas concentration or named greenhouse gas; 1(c) axis labels: y-axis number of people / million AND x-axis country; 4 sensible linear scale to cover at least half the grid; bars equal width AND not touching; four or five correct plots; 1(d) any three from: 3 (flooding) contaminates / pollutes, water bodies; stated examples of contamination / pollution e.g. sewage / industrial waste / domestic waste / agricultural waste / fertilisers; water, cannot be drunk / is unsafe; (flooding can lead to) saltwater / seawater intrusion; damage to, infrastructure / distribution pipes / tanks (so distribution adversely affected); 1(e) any three from: 3 plants / crops, need water for growth; by photosynthesis; (lack of water) reduces crop yield / loss of crops / loss of livestock; leads to famine / starvation; leads to food insecurity; 1(f) any three from: 3 majority south of Tropic of Cancer; some north of Tropic of Cancer; between Tropic of Cancer and equator; underweight children in Africa / (South) Asia; relevant quoted country / data e.g. high in India or Indian sub-continent / low in Americas;

This question in 8291/22 Oct/Nov 2023

4 (a) The UK government promotes the use of electric cars. Electric cars do not use fossil fuel to power them. In 2022, most of the electricity used to charge an electric car in the UK came from burning fossil fuel. Fig. 4.1 shows a poster from the UK, which promotes the benefits of electric cars. THE BENEFITS OF ELECTR C CARS exempt from government London £4500 subsidy taken Congestion off vehicle price C Charge government free or subsidy to install discounted £500 a charging point P parking in at home parts of UK free resident up to 5x cheaper parking permit to run per km in some cities 5x travelled average annual use of bus lanes £300 saving on maintenance Fig. 4.1 People are encouraged to switch from petrol and diesel cars to electric cars. Outline the advantages and disadvantages of switching to electric cars compared to petrol or diesel-powered cars. advantages … … … … disadvantages … … … … [5] (b) Fig. 4.2 shows a questionnaire used to survey people on their views on owning an electric car. The type of question used in Fig. 4.2 is called an open question. question response What would encourage you to buy an electric car in the future? What are your views on electric cars? Fig. 4.2 (i) Explain the disadvantage of using open questions compared with yes / no questions in a questionnaire. … … [1] (ii) Fig. 4.3 shows the tally chart used to record that 14 of the people surveyed own an electric car. number of people own an electric car llll llll llll would buy an electric car Fig. 4.3 Complete Fig. 4.3 to show that 23 people would buy an electric car in the future. [1] (c) Fig. 4.4 shows data for the number of electric cars in three European countries. UK country Norway Germany 0 20 000 40 000 60 000 80 000 total number of electric cars Fig. 4.4 Fig. 4.5 shows the total percentage of electric cars in the three countries. UK country Norway Germany 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 total percentage of electric cars Fig. 4.5 (i) State the total number of electric cars in Norway. … [1] (ii) State the total percentage of electric cars used in Norway. … [1] (iii) Suggest the advantage of using the data in Fig. 4.5 compared to Fig. 4.4. … … … … [2]

11 marks

Mark scheme: 4(a) Total max five: 5 max [4] advantages: electric cars do not emit carbon dioxide; which is a greenhouse gas; less impact on, climate change / global warming / air pollution; lower running costs / cheaper or free parking / cheaper to maintain; subsidies for, purchasing car / installing charging; easier to get around in towns / can use bus lanes / no congestion charge; reduced noise pollution; max [4] disadvantages: electricity for charging comes from burning fossil fuels AND this releases CO2 / greenhouse gases; batteries made with energy from combusting fossil fuels / high amount of energy or raw materials (lithium) needed to produce batteries; (charging) infrastructure currently not widely available; contamination issue from disposal of batteries; short travel distance / short battery range / batteries do not last long (need repairs) / batteries take long time to charge; 4(b)(i) any one from: 1 get large amount of information; time consuming / difficult, to process answers; 4(b)(ii) 1 ; 4(c)(i) 62 000; 1 4(c)(ii) 42; 1 4(c)(iii) any two from: 2 percentage (of electric cars) takes into account the total number of cars; can compare between countries / shows the differences between countries; more accurate representation of the use of electric cars (in a country); 4(d)(i) any two from: 2 fossil fuel depletion; inequality in global energy resources; population growth; differing energy needs; climate change; delays or disruption in supply; reliance on imports; reliance on one form of energy; war / conflict; 4(d)(ii) any two from: 2 increased prices for, fuel / energy; increasing cost to industry; job losses; economic recession / decreased economic wealth / slowed economic growth / unstable economy; increased poverty / lower standards of living; reliance on price set by other countries (as energy imported);

This question in 8291/22 Oct/Nov 2023

1 (a) Fig. 1.1 shows the total fertility rate for 2020. Total fertility rate is the number of children born per woman. Key number of children per woman no data 0 1 2 3 4+ Tropic of Cancer Equator Tropic of Capricorn Fig. 1.1 (i) Describe the distribution shown in Fig. 1.1. … … … … … … [3] (ii) Explain why a lower fertility rate reduces the impact of climate change. … … … … … … [3] (iii) State three factors that affect fertility rate. 1 … 2 … 3 … [3] (b) Table 1.1 shows the dependency ratio for Bangladesh in 2001 and 2021. Table 1.1 year dependency ratio 2001 75 2021 44 Suggest two reasons why the dependency ratio has decreased. 1 … … 2 … … [2] (c) A report estimated that adapting to the impacts of climate change will cost countries with low‑income economies $300 billion a year by 2030. The photograph in Fig. 1.2 shows a road across a shallow river. Fig. 1.2 Explain why the impacts of climate change will require the road to be adapted. … … … … [2] (d) The divided bar chart in Fig. 1.3 shows information about the number of carbon capture and storage (CCS) facilities from 2010 to 2021. Key planned under construction operational 100 80 60 number of facilities 40 20 0 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 year Fig. 1.3 (i) Complete the bar on Fig. 1.3 for 2018 to show there were 15 planned CCS facilities. [2] (ii) State which years had the most operational CCS facilities. … [1] (iii) State the number of CCS facilities that were under construction in 2016. … [1] (iv) Suggest two reasons why the number of planned CCS facilities in 2010 was fewer than the number of planned CCS facilities in 2021. 1 … … 2 … … [2] (e) Describe how carbon capture and storage (CCS) reduces the carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere. … … … … … … [3] (f) Solar radiation management (SRM) is a strategy which aims to reduce the impact of climate change. State two examples of SRM. 1 … 2 … [2] [Total: 24]

24 marks

Mark scheme: 1(a)(i) any three from: highest fertility rate in Africa; west coast of Americas higher than east coast; higher numbers for LICs compared to HICs; relevant quoted data for a continent; e.g. all of Europe has 12 child per woman; relevant quoted data for a country; e.g. Niger has 67 children per woman; AVP; 1(a)(ii) any three from: (fewer people so) less stated (e.g. food) resources used / needed; less energy consumption / less fossil fuels combusted; less carbon dioxide produced / methane / greenhouse gas; reduction in (enhanced) greenhouse effect / global warming; 3 1(a)(iii) any three from: (availability or cost) of contraception; education about contraception; improved education / opportunities for women; availability or improved or cost of health care; (local, national, global) policies; cultural reasons; 3 1(b) any two from: more working age people / more 1564 people; migration of working age people into country; change in birth rate; reduction in life expectancy / death rate of older people increases; 2 1(c) any two from: water level rise; extreme weather / flooding; (surface) erosion; will need to build a bridge / find a different route across the river / divert river; 2 Question Answer Marks 1(d)(i) correct plotting; bar same width and not touching and shading to match key; 2 1(d)(ii) 2019 and 2020 and 2021; 1 1(d)(iii) 6; 1 1(d)(iv) any two from: (in 2021 the) cost to build has decreased; less public objections; more expertise to build; greater demand; increased technology / research; greater economic development; 2 1(e) three from: (carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is captured and) compressed; transported via pipelines / roads / ships; pumped; into rocks / stored underground / stored in (natural) saline aquifers; an impermeable layer of rock above the store; 3 1(f) any two from: albedo enhancement; space reflectors; stratospheric aerosols; 2

This question in 8291/22 May/June 2024

1 (a) Fig. 1.1 shows the total fertility rate for 2020. Total fertility rate is the number of children born per woman. Key number of children per woman no data 0 1 2 3 4+ Tropic of Cancer Equator Tropic of Capricorn Fig. 1.1 (i) Describe the distribution shown in Fig. 1.1. … … … … … … [3] (ii) Explain why a lower fertility rate reduces the impact of climate change. … … … … … … [3] (iii) State three factors that affect fertility rate. 1 … 2 … 3 … [3] (b) Table 1.1 shows the dependency ratio for Bangladesh in 2001 and 2021. Table 1.1 year dependency ratio 2001 75 2021 44 Suggest two reasons why the dependency ratio has decreased. 1 … … 2 … … [2] (c) A report estimated that adapting to the impacts of climate change will cost countries with low‑income economies $300 billion a year by 2030. The photograph in Fig. 1.2 shows a road across a shallow river. Fig. 1.2 Explain why the impacts of climate change will require the road to be adapted. … … … … [2] (d) The divided bar chart in Fig. 1.3 shows information about the number of carbon capture and storage (CCS) facilities from 2010 to 2021. Key planned under construction operational 100 80 60 number of facilities 40 20 0 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 year Fig. 1.3 (i) Complete the bar on Fig. 1.3 for 2018 to show there were 15 planned CCS facilities. [2] (ii) State which years had the most operational CCS facilities. … [1] (iii) State the number of CCS facilities that were under construction in 2016. … [1] (iv) Suggest two reasons why the number of planned CCS facilities in 2010 was fewer than the number of planned CCS facilities in 2021. 1 … … 2 … … [2] (e) Describe how carbon capture and storage (CCS) reduces the carbon dioxide concentration in the atmosphere. … … … … … … [3] (f) Solar radiation management (SRM) is a strategy which aims to reduce the impact of climate change. State two examples of SRM. 1 … 2 … [2] [Total: 24]

24 marks

Mark scheme: 1(a)(i) any three from: highest fertility rate in Africa; west coast of Americas higher than east coast; higher numbers for LICs compared to HICs; relevant quoted data for a continent; e.g. all of Europe has 12 child per woman; relevant quoted data for a country; e.g. Niger has 67 children per woman; AVP; 1(a)(ii) any three from: (fewer people so) less stated (e.g. food) resources used / needed; less energy consumption / less fossil fuels combusted; less carbon dioxide produced / methane / greenhouse gas; reduction in (enhanced) greenhouse effect / global warming; 3 1(a)(iii) any three from: (availability or cost) of contraception; education about contraception; improved education / opportunities for women; availability or improved or cost of health care; (local, national, global) policies; cultural reasons; 3 1(b) any two from: more working age people / more 1564 people; migration of working age people into country; change in birth rate; reduction in life expectancy / death rate of older people increases; 2 1(c) any two from: water level rise; extreme weather / flooding; (surface) erosion; will need to build a bridge / find a different route across the river / divert river; 2 Question Answer Marks 1(d)(i) correct plotting; bar same width and not touching and shading to match key; 2 1(d)(ii) 2019 and 2020 and 2021; 1 1(d)(iii) 6; 1 1(d)(iv) any two from: (in 2021 the) cost to build has decreased; less public objections; more expertise to build; greater demand; increased technology / research; greater economic development; 2 1(e) three from: (carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is captured and) compressed; transported via pipelines / roads / ships; pumped; into rocks / stored underground / stored in (natural) saline aquifers; an impermeable layer of rock above the store; 3 1(f) any two from: albedo enhancement; space reflectors; stratospheric aerosols; 2

This question in 8291/23 May/June 2024

1 Carbon capture and storage are strategies for managing climate change. Some companies are developing strategies to use captured carbon instead of storing the captured carbon. (a) Suggest the disadvantages of storing captured carbon rather than using captured carbon. … … … … … … [3] (b) In 2018, a company developed a unit for using carbon dioxide emitted from industry. The units are called ‘CO2ntainers’. Industrial waste products are reacted in a CO2ntainer with captured carbon dioxide at the location where the carbon dioxide is emitted. (i) Each CO2ntainer can treat a maximum of 12 000 tonnes of industrial waste per year. Four CO2ntainers are used at a factory. Calculate the maximum mass of industrial waste the four CO2ntainers can treat in five years. mass = … tonnes [2] (ii) Calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate are produced by the CO2ntainers. Fig. 1.1 shows calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate which are used in the construction industry. Fig. 1.1 Suggest how the CO2ntainer process reduces negative impacts on the environment. … … … … … … … … [4] (iii) The CO2ntainers use a process called carbonation. This process also occurs naturally. Organisms with shells absorb carbon dioxide from sea water and produce calcium carbonate for their shells. Suggest how this carbon dioxide is naturally stored for millions of years. … … … … … … [3] (c) Carbon dioxide is a limiting factor in the process of photosynthesis. State two other limiting factors in the process of photosynthesis. 1 … 2 … [2] [Total: 14]

14 marks

Mark scheme: Question Answer Marks 1(a) any three from: 3 cost of carbon storage / (storing the carbon) may be expensive; not enough storage facilities; technology for storing carbon is new / developing; stored carbon might leak; 1(b)(i) 4  12 000 (48 000) or5  12 000 (60 000); 2 240 000; 1(b)(ii) any four from: 4 reduces waste / reduces landfill usage; reduces need to quarry or mine; process is sustainable; reduces consumption of energy; permanently captures carbon dioxide; reduces (enhanced) greenhouse effect / greenhouse gas emission / global warming; (industrial) product has a low carbon footprint; reduces cost of raw materials in producing calcium / magnesium carbonate; 1(b)(iii) any three from: 3 (shelled) organisms die / build-up on the sea bed; (shelled organisms) covered in sediment / forms layers (of dead organisms / sediment); compaction / pressurised / cementation; form fossil fuels; 1(c) water / H2O; 2 (sun)light;

This question in 8291/21 Oct/Nov 2024

1 Fig. 1.1 shows a vertical aquaculture farm. Content removed due to copyright restrictions. Fig. 1.1 In Fig. 1.1, seaweed grows from ropes under the water. Shellfish such as mussels grow on chains. Scallops and oysters are farmed in nets and cages. Seaweed photosynthesises. Some species of seaweed grow up to 0.5 m in one day. The seaweed is harvested for use as human and animal food, organic fertiliser and biofuel; it is also used as an ingredient in natural medicines, cosmetics and bioplastics. Any seaweed that is not harvested falls to the sea floor and is covered by layers of sediment. (a) Vertical aquaculture farming is an example of adaptation to climate change. (i) Suggest why some crop farmers need to adapt to climate change by investing in aquaculture. … … … … … … [3] (ii) Suggest how vertical aquaculture can reduce the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. … … … … … … [3] (iii) Suggest one benefit of vertical aquaculture farming other than reducing the impacts of climate change. … [1] (b) Fig. 1.2 shows the annual yield of seaweed from aquaculture farms in China from 1978 to 2014. 2.0 1.5 annual yield of 1.0 seaweed / million tonnes 0.5 0 1975 1985 1995 2005 2015 year Fig. 1.2 (i) Describe the trend in the annual yield of seaweed from aquaculture farms in China from 1978 to 2014. … … … … … … [3] (ii) Suggest one reason for a decrease in annual yield of seaweed from aquaculture farms. … … [1] (c) The seaweed aquaculture farming sector is predicted to grow. Fig. 1.3 shows three predictions for global yield of seaweed from aquaculture farms based on three different percentage growth rates. Key percentage growth rate per year 6% 12% 20% 12 000 10 000 annual 8000 yield of seaweed 6000 / million tonnes 4000 2000 0 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045 2050 year Fig. 1.3 Table 1.1 shows the area of ocean required by 2050 for each percentage growth rate. Table 1.1 percentage growth rate area of ocean required by 2050 per year / km2 6 12 797 12 74 524 20 677 832 Suggest why there is concern about the impact of a 20% growth rate in global aquaculture. … … … … [2] (d) Overfishing impacts ecosystems. Describe strategies for reducing the impact of overfishing. … … … … … … [3] (e) The ocean is a source of salt water. (i) State three sources of surface fresh water. 1 … 2 … 3 … [3] (ii) The atmosphere contains water vapour. State three other gases in unpolluted air. 1 … 2 … 3 … [3] (f) Water is an abiotic component of an ecosystem. State three other abiotic components of an ecosystem. 1 … 2 … 3 … [3] [Total: 25]

25 marks

Mark scheme: Question Answer Marks 1(a)(i) any three from: 3 increasing global temperatures / global warming; extreme or severe weather; examples of extreme weather, e.g. drought / flooding / hurricanes; rising sea levels; (leading to) loss of land (for crops or agriculture); non-optimum conditions for crop growth (due to climate change); crop failure / reduced crop yield / less food; 1(a)(ii) any three from: 3 seaweed act as carbon sinks / stores / shellfish act as carbon sinks / stores; seaweed absorbs or uses carbon dioxide during photosynthesis; seaweed is fast growing so large volumes of carbon dioxide removed; provide an alternate food source other than meat based diet; (acts as raw ingredient in many products so) reduces need to extract other raw ingredients; (biofuels) reduce need for fossil fuels; 1(a)(iii) any one from: 1 habitat for marine wildlife; storm-surge protection; improved food security; high (aquatic) crop density or yield; 1(b)(i) any three from: 3 overall increase; 1978 to (1987–)1990 no change or little change / stable; decrease (2005–)2006 to 2007; relevant quoted data trend; 1(b)(ii) any one from: 1 extreme weather or description, e.g. storms / hurricanes; disease; unfavourable growing conditions or description; outcompeted by other species; competition from other ocean activities / industries; 1(c) any two from: 2 large area of ocean needed; limits (other) activities that can take place in ocean; competition with fishing / traditional marine harvesting; concern over impact on native species; increase in pollution (from boats); 1(d) any three from or developed: 3 legislation / international agreement; sustainable harvesting; protected areas; stated fisheries regulation: quotas / catch limits / closed seasons; changes to net size (protects juveniles) / changes to fishing method such as pole and line (reduces bycatch); 1(e)(i) any three from: 3 ice sheets; glaciers; lakes; rivers / streams; swamps; marshes; permafrost; 1(e)(ii) any three from: 3 nitrogen; oxygen; carbon dioxide; argon / noble gases; 1(f) any three from: 3 temperature; humidity; oxygen; carbon dioxide; salinity; (sun)light; pH;

This question in 8291/22 Oct/Nov 2024

1 Carbon capture and storage are strategies for managing climate change. Some companies are developing strategies to use captured carbon instead of storing the captured carbon. (a) Suggest the disadvantages of storing captured carbon rather than using captured carbon. … … … … … … [3] (b) In 2018, a company developed a unit for using carbon dioxide emitted from industry. The units are called ‘CO2ntainers’. Industrial waste products are reacted in a CO2ntainer with captured carbon dioxide at the location where the carbon dioxide is emitted. (i) Each CO2ntainer can treat a maximum of 12 000 tonnes of industrial waste per year. Four CO2ntainers are used at a factory. Calculate the maximum mass of industrial waste the four CO2ntainers can treat in five years. mass = … tonnes [2] (ii) Calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate are produced by the CO2ntainers. Fig. 1.1 shows calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate which are used in the construction industry. Fig. 1.1 Suggest how the CO2ntainer process reduces negative impacts on the environment. … … … … … … … … [4] (iii) The CO2ntainers use a process called carbonation. This process also occurs naturally. Organisms with shells absorb carbon dioxide from sea water and produce calcium carbonate for their shells. Suggest how this carbon dioxide is naturally stored for millions of years. … … … … … … [3] (c) Carbon dioxide is a limiting factor in the process of photosynthesis. State two other limiting factors in the process of photosynthesis. 1 … 2 … [2] [Total: 14]

14 marks

Mark scheme: Question Answer Marks 1(a) any three from: 3 cost of carbon storage / (storing the carbon) may be expensive; not enough storage facilities; technology for storing carbon is new / developing; stored carbon might leak; 1(b)(i) 4  12 000 (48 000) or5  12 000 (60 000); 2 240 000; 1(b)(ii) any four from: 4 reduces waste / reduces landfill usage; reduces need to quarry or mine; process is sustainable; reduces consumption of energy; permanently captures carbon dioxide; reduces (enhanced) greenhouse effect / greenhouse gas emission / global warming; (industrial) product has a low carbon footprint; reduces cost of raw materials in producing calcium / magnesium carbonate; 1(b)(iii) any three from: 3 (shelled) organisms die / build-up on the sea bed; (shelled organisms) covered in sediment / forms layers (of dead organisms / sediment); compaction / pressurised / cementation; form fossil fuels; 1(c) water / H2O; 2 (sun)light;

This question in 8291/23 Oct/Nov 2024

3 (a) Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) from aerosols and refrigerants cause ozone depletion. (i) State the layer of the atmosphere which contains the ozone layer. … [1] (ii) Outline how ozone depletion occurs. … … … … … … … … [4] (b) International agreements phased out the use of CFCs. The use of CFCs is now banned. A computer model is used to predict the impact of different international agreements on the concentration of ozone-depleting substances (ODS). Fig. 3.1 shows the predicted impact of each international agreement on the concentration of ozone-depleting substances (ODS). 4 Montreal (1987) no protocol 3 London concentration (1990) of ODS 2 / arbitrary units 1 Copenhagen (1992) Montreal (2007) natural sources 0 1960 1980 2000 2020 2040 2060 2080 2100 year Fig. 3.1 (i) Use Fig. 3.1 to evaluate the effectiveness of the international agreements in controlling ODS. … … … … … … [3] (ii) Suggest why natural sources are included in the data. … … … [1] (c) Fig. 3.2 shows the percentage change in ultraviolet radiation reaching the Earth’s surface in 2008 compared to 1979. 30 25 20 percentage 15 change in ultraviolet 10 radiation 5 0 -5 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 South Equator North latitude / ° Fig. 3.2 (i) Explain the data shown in Fig. 3.2. … … … … … … … … [3] (ii) State three impacts of increased amounts of ultraviolet radiation reaching the Earth’s surface. 1 … 2 … 3 … [3] (d) A company collects and destroys CFCs from discarded refrigeration units. Compared to carbon dioxide, CFCs produce more than 10 000 times as much global warming. The company has destroyed the equivalent of 460 000 000 tonnes of carbon dioxide. Other companies buy ‘carbon offset credits’ from this company. Each carbon offset credit is equivalent to 1 tonne of carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere. Carbon offset credits allow other companies to continue to release carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Suggest the benefits and limitations of carbon offset credits for reducing the impact of climate change. … … … … … … [3] [Total: 18]

18 marks

Mark scheme: 3(a)(i) stratosphere; 1 3(a)(ii) any four from: 4 M1 CFCs are not broken down in troposphere; M2 CFCs (move or rise into) stratosphere AND (CFCs) breakdown; M3 (CFC breakdown) due to ultraviolet or UV light; M4 then release, chlorine (atom) / Cl (atom); M5 chlorine (atoms) / Cl (atoms), breakdown ozone / O3; M6 to form, oxygen (molecules) / O2; M7 polar stratospheric clouds / PSC, provide surface for reactions; M8 polar vortex provides cold temperatures; M9 chlorine (atoms) / Cl (atoms), remain in atmosphere / continue to destroy ozone; 3(b)(i) any three from: 3 M1 all agreements, reduced concentration or ODS / are effective; M2 Montreal 1987 (still) increases / least effective / not effective; M3 London, (still) increases / not effective; M4 Montreal 2007 decreases / most effective/is effective; M5 Copenhagen has decreases / is effective; M6 Montreal 1987 has constant (rate) of increase; M7 relevant data quote e.g. Montreal 2007 predicted to almost reach 1960 levels by 2100 / Montreal 2007 less than 1 by 2100; 3(b)(ii) any one from: 1 M1 to show that the CFCs are human-made; M2 idea of comparing concentration ODS from human-made and natural sources; 3(c)(i) any three from: 3 M1 more UV reaching Earth’s surface (in 2008 as most percentages are positive); M2 due to, ozone depletion / ozone hole; M3 ozone depletion greatest over Antarctica; M4 due to, colder temperatures / polar vortex; M5 due to, polar stratospheric clouds / PSCs; 3(c)(ii) any three from: 3 M1 cataracts; M2 cancer; M3 reduced photosynthesis / decreased crop yields; M4 loss of biodiversity; M5 degradation of construction materials or buildings; M6 degradation of clothing; 3(d) total max 3 marks 3 max two benefits: M1 less greenhouse gases released (into atmosphere); M2 less global warming; M3 stated example of climate change impact reduction e.g. less sea level rise; any two limitations: M4 CO2 still being released / does not encourage other companies to reduce their own emissions / companies continue to pollute; M5 (company selling may) limit how many carbon credits can be purchased;

This question in 8291/21 May/June 2025

4 (a) Biochar is added to soil to improve soil structure. Biochar also adds nutrients to soil. Biochar is produced from biomass heated to high temperatures with limited or no oxygen. Fig. 4.1 shows the process of biochar production. heater biogas and hydrogen produced biomass residual heat biochar Fig. 4.1 (i) Describe how biochar production could reduce the use of non-renewable resources. … … … … [2] (ii) Biochar is 80% carbon and can take thousands of years to decompose. Describe how biochar can reduce the impact of climate change. … … … … [2] (b) Table 4.1 shows chemical properties of biochar produced from the waste biomass of six crops. Table 4.1 chemical properties of biochar percentage of percentage of biochar crop pH nitrogen potassium prosopis 9.7 1.23 0.50 rice 8.1 1.78 0.20 maize 10.0 2.06 0.80 cotton 10.6 0.67 1.40 red gram 10.8 1.65 2.50 sorghum 11.8 1.02 3.90 (i) Plot the percentage of nitrogen for each crop as a bar chart. [4] (ii) State which biochar crop is most suitable to add to a soil deficient in potassium. … [1] (iii) Calculate the range in pH of biochar shown in Table 4.1. range in pH = … [1] (iv) Acid soils can be improved by adding biochar. State which biochar crop reduces soil acidity the most. … [1] (v) The pH of an ecosystem is an abiotic component. State two other abiotic components. 1 … 2 … [2] (vi) Suggest how growing vegetation for biomass can increase food insecurity. … … [1] (vii) Suggest how the use of biochar benefits rural communities in the Amazon region. … … [1]

15 marks

Mark scheme: 4(a)(i) any two from: 2 M1 biogas / biofuels, are renewable fuels; M2 the (residual) heat from the process is fed back to the heater / no additional energy needed; M3 stated example of how use of biochar reduces the use of non-renewable resources e.g. biochar does not need to be extracted from a quarry using equipment that runs on non-renewable resources; 4(a)(ii) any two from: 2 M1 carbon, capture / sink / store; M2 carbon stored for a long time; M3 replaces, non-renewable resources / fossil fuels; 4(b)(i) M1 axis labels: y-axis percentage of nitrogen AND x-axis biochar crop AND crop names; 4 M2 sensible linear scale such that plotted points occupy at least half of grid; M3 5–6 correct plots; M4 bars drawn with ruler AND of equal width AND not touching; 4(b)(ii) sorghum; 1 4(b)(iii) 3.7; 1 4(b)(iv) sorghum; 1 4(b)(v) any two from: 2 M1 temperature; M2 humidity; M3 water; M4 oxygen; M5 salinity; M6 light; 4(b)(vi) any one from: 1 M1 (land or vegetation) not used for crops or food / reduced crop yield; M2 less food for livestock; M3 vegetation cannot be eaten; 4(b)(vii) any one from: 1 M1 maintains fertile land / allows for good plant or crop growth; M2 improves food security; M3 more land can be used to grow crops; M4 stated economic benefit e.g. of selling biomass to make biochar; M5 sustainable practice; M6 can be used, as a fuel / to provide energy; M7 readily available; 4(c) M1 uneven / scattered, distribution; 3 M2 large area, in south / S / south east / SE / east / E; M3 large areas, either side / along, rivers; 4(d)(i) key matches pie chart with shading AND labels; 1 4(d)(ii) any two from: 2 M1 homes / towns / roads / infrastructure / construction / urbanisation / industry / building; M2 mineral extraction / mining; M3 renewable energy e.g. hydroelectric / HEP / wind farms / solar power; M4 reservoirs / dams; M5 natural disasters e.g. storms / (wild) fires / floods / droughts / volcanoes; 4(e)(i) any two from: 2 M1 first (species) to colonise; M2 small plants; M3 fast growing / quickly fills an area / spread fast; M4 short lived; M5 improves soil or stated example e.g. binds shallow or thin soil / improves soil structure / improves soil fertility / adds organic matter / improves water holding capacity; M6 tolerance to hostile conditions / stated example e.g. low pH or acid soils or can grow in soils with limited nutrients; 4(e)(ii) climax (community); 1

This question in 8291/21 May/June 2025

1 Bangladesh is a country in Asia. Bangladesh is classified as a country with a lower middle-income economy. (a) (i) Bangladesh has an area of 147 630 km2. In 2022, the population was 172 940 000. Calculate the population density for Bangladesh in 2022. Give your answer as a whole number. … people / km2 [2] (ii) Describe how environmental factors influence population density. … … … … … … … … [4] (b) Fig. 1.1 shows part of the population pyramid for Bangladesh. 100+ male female 95–99 90–94 85–89 80–84 75–79 70–74 65–69 60–64 55–59 age 50–54 45–49 40–44 35–39 30–34 25–29 20–24 15–19 10–14 5–9 0–4 6 4 2 0 2 4 6 percentage of population Fig. 1.1 Complete Fig. 1.1 using the data in Table 1.1. Table 1.1 percentage of population age male female 15−19 5 45−49 3 [2] (c) Fig. 1.2 shows the past and predicted trend in population for Bangladesh. 2022 = 172 940 000 population 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030 2040 2050 2060 2070 2080 2090 2100 year Fig. 1.2 Suggest reasons for the trend in the predicted population for Bangladesh. … … … … … … … … [4] (d) The vulnerability of a country to climate change and its readiness to adapt to climate change is estimated in a report. Countries are given a score and a rank out of 182 countries. The highest score has a high rank of 1. A high rank shows a country is less vulnerable and more ready to adapt to climate change. Table 1.2 shows this data for three countries in 2020. Table 1.2 country score rank Norway 75.4 1 Bangladesh 36.9 164 Chad 26.7 182 (i) The report stated that it will take more than 100 years for current low-ranking countries to reach the scores of current high-ranking countries. Suggest why this statement is a concern for Bangladesh. … … … … [2] (ii) Table 1.3 shows the scores for Bangladesh from 2000 to 2020. Table 1.3 year 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 score 37.1 37.4 44.0 34.8 36.9 Plot a bar chart of the data. [4] [Total: 18]

18 marks

Mark scheme: Question Answer Marks 1(a)(i) M1 1171.4; 2 M2 rounded correctly / 1171; 1(a)(ii) M1 idea that some (environmental) factors, increase population density / decrease population density; 4 any three factors described: M2 suitable climate e.g. weather not too hot or not too cold / enough rain; M3 relief of land e.g. not too hilly; M4 suitable soil fertility (to grow crops); M5 (availability of, or access to) natural resources / (natural) energy / food / minerals; M6 (availability of, or access to) water (supply); M7 low risk of natural hazards; M8 access to coast, for fishing / recreation / trade / transport; 1(b) M1 correct plotting: male = 5% and female = 3%; 2 M2 same width bars; 1(c) total four from: 4 max three increase (to 2060): M1 improved health care; M2 improved sanitation; M3 economic position of Bangladesh improves / becomes a HIC or HMIC; M4 stated economic or social reason for migration to Bangladesh e.g. for jobs, for education, for housing, to escape conflict; max three decrease (2060 onwards) M5 improved availability of contraception; M6 improved education about contraception; M7 improved, education / opportunities for women; M8 limited availability of stated resource e.g. water, food, energy; M9 impact of climate change / stated impact e.g. flooding; 1(d)(i) any two from: 2 M1 Bangladesh has, low rank / low score and will take (100 / many) years to improve; M2 impacts (of climate change) are ongoing / climate change is ongoing; M3 will need investment, to become climate ready; M4 high population will be affected by climate change; M5 (this will) lead to migration; M6 stated climate change impact e.g. extreme weather / flooding / sea level rise; 1(d)(ii) M1 axes labels: score and all years indicated / year; 4 M2 suitable linear scale whereby plotted data occupies at least half the grid; M3 bars of equal width and equally spaced and not touching; M4 5 correct plots;

This question in 8291/22 Oct/Nov 2025