WRITE CHAPTER ONE OF IMPACTS OF CLIMATE VARIABILITY ON HUMAN THERMAL COMFORT IN ZARIA, KADUNASTATE

Chapter One: Introduction

1.1 Background of the Study

Climate variability refers to changes in patterns of weather over short periods, such as decades or years. It is a significant global issue that affects various aspects of life, including human thermal comfort. Human thermal comfort is a measure of a person's satisfaction with the surrounding environment's thermal conditions. In Zaria, Kaduna State, climate variability has been observed to have a significant impact on human thermal comfort.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

The increasing variability in climate, characterized by extreme weather events such as heatwaves and cold spells, has raised concerns about its impacts on human thermal comfort. In Zaria, these changes have been linked to discomfort, health risks, and reduced productivity among the population. However, there is a lack of comprehensive studies examining the extent and nature of these impacts.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The main objective of this study is to investigate the impacts of climate variability on human thermal comfort in Zaria, Kaduna State. The specific objectives are:

i. To examine the patterns of climate variability in Zaria. ii. To assess the effects of climate variability on human thermal comfort. iii. To identify the adaptive strategies employed by the residents of Zaria in response to changes in thermal comfort due to climate variability.

1.4 Research Questions

The following research questions will guide this study:

i. What are the patterns of climate variability in Zaria? ii. How does climate variability affect human thermal comfort in Zaria? iii. What adaptive strategies are employed by the residents of Zaria in response to changes in thermal comfort due to climate variability?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study will provide valuable insights into the impacts of climate variability on human thermal comfort. It will contribute to the body of knowledge on climate change and its effects on human health and well-being. The findings will also inform policy-making and planning for climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies in Zaria and similar regions.

1.6 Scope of the Study

This study will focus on the impacts of climate variability on human thermal comfort in Zaria, Kaduna State. The study will cover the period from 2000 to 2020.

1.7 Limitations of the Study

The study may be limited by the availability and reliability of climate and health data. Additionally, the study's findings may not be generalizable to other regions due to differences in climate, socio-economic factors, and adaptive capacity.

1.8 Structure of the Study

The study is organized into five chapters. Chapter one provides the introduction and background of the study. Chapter two reviews relevant literature on climate variability and human thermal comfort. Chapter three describes the research methodology. Chapter four presents and discusses the findings. Chapter five provides the conclusions and recommendations.