Q. Discuss global warming and mention its effects on global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gasses which cause global warming in the light of the Kyoto Protocol 1997. [250 words, 15 Marks]
Why the Question?
UPSC PYQ – CSE Mains – 2022
Keywords of the Question
- Global warming
- Effects on global climate
- Control measures
- Level of greenhouse gasses
- Kyoto Protocol
Directive Word
Discuss – Essentially this is a written debate where you are using your skill at reasoning, backed up by carefully selected evidence to make a case for and against an argument, or point out the advantages and disadvantages of a given context. Remember to arrive at a conclusion
Explain – Clarify a topic by giving a detailed account as to how and why it occurs, or what is meant by the use of this term in a particular context. Your writing should have clarity so that complex procedures or sequences of events can be understood; defining key terms where appropriate, and be substantiated with relevant research.
How to approach this Question?
Introduction
- Define global warming.
- Briefly mention its significance and relevance in the current global context.
Body
- Effects of Global Warming on Global Climate:
- Rising global temperatures.
- Melting polar ice caps and glaciers.
- Rising sea levels.
- Increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events (e.g., hurricanes, droughts).
- Shifts in ecosystems and wildlife patterns.
- Control Measures to Reduce Greenhouse Gases:
- Kyoto Protocol 1997:
- Overview of the Kyoto Protocol.
- Binding emission reduction targets for developed countries.
- Mechanisms introduced (e.g., Emissions Trading, Clean Development Mechanism, Joint Implementation).
- Other Measures:
- Transition to renewable energy sources.
- Enhancing energy efficiency.
- Reforestation and afforestation.
- Promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
- Reducing methane emissions from waste management and energy systems.
- Kyoto Protocol 1997:
Conclusion
- Summarize the importance of global cooperation in combating global warming.
- Emphasize the need for continuous and enhanced efforts beyond the Kyoto Protocol.
- Mention the role of individuals, communities, and nations in mitigating climate change.
Note: Please note that the following ‘answers’ are not ‘model answers’ nor are they synopses in the strictest sense. Instead, they are content designed to meet the demands of the question while providing comprehensive coverage of the topic.
Answer Key
Introduction
Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth’s average surface temperature due to human activities, primarily the emission of greenhouse gases (GHGs) such as carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O). This phenomenon is significant as it poses severe threats to the environment, economies, and societies worldwide.
Body
Effects of Global Warming on Global Climate:
- Rising Global Temperatures: The global average temperature has increased by approximately 1.2°C since the pre-industrial era.
- Melting Polar Ice Caps and Glaciers: The Arctic sea ice extent has declined by about 13% per decade.
- Rising Sea Levels: Global sea levels have risen by about 20 cm since 1880, threatening coastal communities.
- Increased Frequency and Intensity of Extreme Weather Events: There has been a notable increase in the frequency and intensity of hurricanes, droughts, and heatwaves.
- Shifts in Ecosystems and Wildlife Patterns: Many species are migrating towards the poles or to higher altitudes, disrupting ecosystems.
Control Measures to Reduce Greenhouse Gases:
Kyoto Protocol 1997:
- Overview: The Kyoto Protocol, adopted in 1997, was the first international treaty to set binding emission reduction targets for developed countries.
- Binding Emission Reduction Targets: Developed countries committed to reducing their GHG emissions by an average of 5.2% below 1990 levels during the 2008-2012 period.
- Mechanisms Introduced:
- Emissions Trading: Allows countries to trade emission allowances to meet their targets.
- Clean Development Mechanism (CDM): Enables developed countries to invest in emission reduction projects in developing countries.
- Joint Implementation (JI): Allows developed countries to earn emission reduction units by investing in projects in other developed countries.
Other Measures:
- Transition to Renewable Energy Sources: Increasing the use of solar, wind, and hydroelectric power.
- Enhancing Energy Efficiency: Implementing energy-saving technologies in industries and households.
- Reforestation and Afforestation: Planting trees to absorb CO₂ from the atmosphere.
- Promoting Sustainable Agricultural Practices: Reducing methane emissions from livestock and rice paddies.
- Reducing Methane Emissions from Waste Management and Energy Systems: Improving waste management practices and capturing methane from landfills.
Conclusion
Global cooperation is crucial in combating global warming. Continuous and enhanced efforts beyond the Kyoto Protocol are necessary to mitigate climate change. Individuals, communities, and nations must work together to reduce GHG emissions and promote sustainable practices.
Mind Map
