<aside> ☝ From this section, you must know…

  1. What are the factors that motive people to make adaptations?
  2. What are the factors that motive people to modify their environment?
  3. What stops people from changing their environment? </aside>

The three factors that people consider when deciding to adapt to or modify the environment:

  1. How expensive is it? – Modifications are generally more expensive than adaptation?
  2. Do we have the technology? – Some modifications require advanced technology.
  3. Is it effective? – If an adaptation doesn’t benefit or fix the problem?

Modifications

Modification Cost Technological problems Effectiveness
Dams Expensive None – dams have been built since the industrial era. Work great for flood control and generating electricity
Land reclamation Expensive Land projects are difficult and require a lot of planning If there is little land to build on, this is effective
Terrace Farming Inexpensive None – done since ancient times Very effective for farming in hilly or mountainous terrain
Canal Expensive None – done since ancient times Depends on location

Adaptations

Adaptation Cost Technological problems Effectiveness
Evacuation None None Mixed results – evacuation orders may come too late or be ignored
‣ Depends on the adaptations done None Mixed results
Solar Expensive Modern technology Depends on sunlight
Desalination Expensive Modern technology Uses a lot of electricity