The Impact of Climate Change on Population Movement: A case Study in Al- Nehoud District from the year 2000 to 2021

Abstract

The study aimed to identify the reasons leading to population mobility towards Al-Nahoud district as well as to explore the relationship between climate change and the expansion of urban centers, and the impact of climate fluctuations on urban growth. The study also sought to determine the relationship between fluctuations in rainfall rates, rising temperatures, and the decrease in biomass in agricultural, animal, and forest sectors, in addition to identifying optimal strategies to reduce population mobility towards the locality. To achieve these objectives, the researchers employed the historical, descriptive, and statistical analytical approaches, and used various data collection methods, including observation, personal interviews, and secondary sources such as books, journals, reports, and relevant websites. The study revealed that the decline and fragmentation of tree cover during the period (2000-2021), which affected plant diversity, and a noticeable change in crop productivity due to rainfall variability and rising temperatures. Environmental degradation and pressure on natural resources also contributed to population mobility towards urban centers, leading to the expansion of urban centers in Al-Nahoud in response to the increasing population. Based on these findings, the study has suggested some recommendations, including: strengthening the role of institutions and voluntary organizations to reduce the effects of climate change on rural populations, promoting the cultivation of crops adapted to low rainfall rates to reduce forced migration, and managing urban expansion according to sustainable urban planning to meet the increasing needs of the population.