Consider the following pairs regarding the impact of climate change on...
1. Drought conditions - Reduced passage of ships: Correct
The prolonged drought since early 2023 has led to reduced water levels in Lake Gatun, causing a decrease in the number of ships that can pass through the Panama Canal. This has reduced ship traffic significantly.
2. Lowered water levels - Restriction on size of ships: Correct
Lower water levels have indeed restricted the size of vessels that can navigate the canal, as larger ships face increased risks of grounding in the shallower areas.
3. Increased rainfall - Enhanced operational efficiency: Incorrect
The statement is incorrect because the current problem is not increased rainfall but rather reduced rainfall leading to drought conditions. Enhanced operational efficiency would likely result from stable and adequate water levels, not increased rainfall during a drought period.
4. Disruption in Panama Canal - Impact on global trade: Correct
Disruptions in the Panama Canal due to low water levels and reduced passage of ships have significantly impacted global trade, causing delays, increased fuel consumption, and potential GDP losses as ships are forced to take longer routes.
Thus, three pairs are correctly matched.