1. Unique Landform – Ramon Crater
Located in the southern region of Israel, the Negev Desert occupies about 60% of Israel's territory. At the heart of this vast desert lies the Ramon Crater, also known as Makhtesh Ramon. Measuring approximately 40 km in length, 2 to 10 km in width, and about 500 meters in depth, it is considered the world's largest erosion crater. The area reveals rocks and minerals that date back around 200 million years, making it a geologically valuable site. The Israeli government has designated this area as a national park to preserve its natural landscape. This type of landform is referred to as a makhtesh, a unique geological structure found almost exclusively in Israel and the Sinai Peninsula.I am curious to know how this landform was formed in relation to Israel’s climate. Given that Israel has a highly complex climate, I would like to understand how this relates to the desert location and the creation of the Ramon Crater.
2. Desired Photo, etc.
I understand that Israel is home to many religiously significant architectural sites. For example, the city of Jerusalem, which serves as a sacred place for Christianity, Judaism, and Islam alike, is located in this region. I have seen the appearance of Jerusalem in various documentaries. Examples include the Western Wall, known as the most sacred prayer site in Judaism; the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, believed to be the place where Jesus was crucified and resurrected; and the Dome of the Rock, where Muslims believe the Prophet Muhammad ascended to heaven.
Since Jerusalem brings together these three religions—each with its own unique characteristics yet sharing common roots—I would love to receive a photo that captures this coexistence and complexity as clearly as possible.
Climate of Korea and Climate Response
Climate of Korea and Climate Response
Basic Climate of Korea
Korea is classified under the "temperate winter dry climate." This type of climate is found in countries located on the eastern side of continents with high summer precipitation due to the monsoon. As a result, Korea experiences significant seasonal changes between summer and winter. As of April, Korea enters the spring season, during which temperatures rise and the daily temperature range becomes significant.
<Spring Temperatures>
<Southern regions (e.g., Busan, Gwangju): average temperature is around 12–18°C.>
<Central regions (e.g., Seoul, Daejeon): average temperature is around 10–16°C.>
<Northern and mountainous areas (e.g., Pyeongchang, Cheorwon): average temperature is lower, around 6–13°C.>
Temperatures vary by latitude and altitude, and significant temperature fluctuations during the day mean people should pay attention to proper clothing.
<Precipitation, Humidity, and Weather Phenomena>
Spring is relatively dry with low precipitation. Weather phenomena such as yellow dust and fine dust are common due to wind. Recently, abnormal high temperatures and localized showers have also been observed due to climate change. Yellow dust, originating from the inland of China and the Gobi Desert in Mongolia during March to April, is carried to Korea by westerly winds, causing major inconvenience each year.
2. Climate Change in Korea
Over the past 100 years, South Korea has experienced various climate changes, such as rising average temperatures, changes in precipitation patterns, and an increase in extreme weather events. This section explains the major trends, causes, impacts, and policy responses to climate change in Korea along with data visualizations.
<Climate Change Trends in Korea>
South Korea’s annual average temperature has increased by about 1.8°C over the past 100 years. This is higher than the global average temperature rise during the same period. Precipitation patterns have also changed, with more concentrated heavy rainfalls and increased regional disparities.
<Extreme Weather and Natural Disasters>
The frequency of heatwaves, heavy rains, droughts, and typhoons has increased significantly. For example, heatwave days have doubled over the past few decades, and localized downpours cause flooding damage in cities.
<Impacts on the Ecosystem and Society>
These climate changes affect agriculture, water resources, biodiversity, and human health. Crops are damaged by floods and heatwaves, and the spread of pests and diseases is increasing. Moreover, the elderly and low-income groups are more vulnerable to the health effects of climate change.
3. Korea's Climate Response Policy
Korea has established various policies to cope with climate change, including mitigation and adaptation strategies.
<Carbon Neutral Strategy>
The Korean government declared its goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. To this end, it is expanding the supply of renewable energy, supporting the development of green industries, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the industrial and transport sectors.
<Adaptation Measures>
In addition to mitigation, Korea is promoting adaptation policies such as establishing early warning systems for disasters, securing stable water resources, and protecting biodiversity.
<International Cooperation>
Korea is participating in international climate agreements such as the Paris Agreement and is contributing to global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and support developing countries through financial and technological assistance.
Conclusion
Korea’s climate and seasonal changes are clear, and its response to climate change is becoming increasingly urgent. It is essential to strengthen both national policy and individual efforts to respond to the climate crisis, with cooperation across all sectors of society.
Israel's Climate Change Response
Israel's Climate Change Response
Israel is located in the arid climate of the Middle East and is one of the countries most directly affected by climate change. In response, the Israeli government has established a range of policies to effectively address climate change, including greenhouse gas reduction, climate adaptation strategies, and technological innovation.
<Greenhouse Gas Reduction Goals>
Israel aims to reduce its per capita greenhouse gas emissions by 26% compared to 2005 levels by the year 2030. To achieve this, the following targets have been set:
- Reduce electricity consumption by 17%
- Transition 17% of total electricity production to renewable energy
- Replace 20% of vehicle usage with public transportation
<National Adaptation Plan (NAP)>
Through Government Decision No. 4079, the Israeli government formulated the National Adaptation Plan. This plan includes 48 government-level actions and over 200 implementation tasks across five key sectors: security, economy, infrastructure, agriculture/nature/water resources, and welfare.
<Ministry-Level Adaptation Plans>
Each government ministry was instructed to establish its own adaptation plan by 2023. The Ministry of Environmental Protection developed a five-year plan for 2024–2028, which analyzes the impact of climate change on ministerial activities and outlines specific response strategies.
<Technological Innovation and International Cooperation>
Israel is home to approximately 1,300 climate-related technology startups. These startups are developing innovative climate technology solutions, which are introduced on international platforms and expanded through cooperation with global partners.
Q: What are the specific details of the National Adaptation Plan (NAP)?
