Latin America, Caribbean Face Stormy Future - BBC

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Latin America and the Caribbean face a greater risk of more natural disasters because of environmental degradation and climate change, campaigners warn. A report by a coalition of environment and aid groups said the region's weather was becoming less predictable and often more extreme.

Evidence showed many areas were more vulnerable because depleted ecosystems were struggling to adapt, they argued. The groups said efforts to end poverty were being undermined as a result.

The report, Up in Smoke? Latin America and the Caribbean, presented evidence it said showed that the livelihoods of millions of people in the region were at risk, including:

Increased storm intensity - the 2005 hurricane season was "one of the most active and destructive in history"

Water shortages - changes to glacier melt in the Andes were affecting river flows and threatening water supplies, leading to a greater risk of disputes

Illegal logging and deforestation - linked to increased carbon emissions, and leaves area prone to a greater risk of flooding

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http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/5290818.stm