Global warming, driven by increased greenhouse gas emissions, is a major factor altering the global climate, leading to extreme weather and environmental degradation. Key international efforts, including the Kyoto Protocol, have focused on reducing emissions to mitigate these impacts.

Q.17  Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases which cause global warming, in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997.

Model Answer:

Introduction

Global Warming refers to the long-term rise 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). These gases trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to the greenhouse effect.

Body

Effects on Global Climate

  1. Temperature Rise: The global average temperature has increased by approximately 1.2°C since the late 19th century. This rise in temperature has led to more frequent and severe heatwaves.
  2. Melting Ice Caps and Glaciers: The Arctic sea ice extent has decreased by about 13% per decade since 1979. This contributes to rising sea levels and loss of habitat for polar species.
  3. Sea Level Rise: Global sea levels have risen by about 20 cm since the late 19th century, primarily due to thermal expansion of seawater and melting ice.
  4. Extreme Weather Events: There has been an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as hurricanes, droughts, and heavy rainfall.
  5. Ocean Acidification: Increased CO2 levels are causing the oceans to become more acidic, affecting marine life, particularly coral reefs.
  6. Impact on Biodiversity: Many species are facing extinction due to changing habitats and climate conditions. For example, coral reefs are bleaching and dying due to warmer ocean temperatures.

Control Measures to Reduce Greenhouse Gases

Kyoto Protocol, 1997

The Kyoto Protocol is an international treaty that commits its parties to reduce GHG emissions, based on the premise that global warming exists and human-made CO2 emissions have caused it.

Key Features of the Kyoto Protocol:

  1. Binding Targets: Developed countries (Annex I countries) agreed to legally binding targets to reduce GHG emissions by an average of 5.2% below 1990 levels during the first commitment period (2008-2012).
  2. Flexible Mechanisms:
    • Emissions Trading: Countries can trade emission allowances to meet their targets.
    • Clean Development Mechanism (CDM): Allows developed countries to invest in emission reduction projects in developing countries and earn certified emission reduction (CER) credits.
    • Joint Implementation (JI): Allows developed countries to earn emission reduction units (ERUs) by investing in emission reduction projects in other developed countries.
  3. Monitoring and Reporting: Countries must monitor and report their emissions and progress towards targets.
  4. Compliance: A compliance committee ensures that parties meet their commitments.

Additional Control Measures

  1. Renewable Energy: Promoting the use of renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
  2. Energy Efficiency: Improving energy efficiency in industries, buildings, and transportation to reduce energy consumption and emissions.
  3. Afforestation and Reforestation: Planting trees to absorb CO2 from the atmosphere.
  4. Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): Capturing CO2 emissions from industrial sources and storing them underground.
  5. Public Awareness and Education: Raising awareness about the impacts of global warming and encouraging sustainable practices.
  6. International Cooperation: Collaborating with other countries to share technology, knowledge, and resources to combat global warming.

Conclusion

Global warming poses a significant threat to the global climate, leading to a range of adverse effects. The Kyoto Protocol was a crucial step in international efforts to reduce GHG emissions, but continued and enhanced efforts are necessary to mitigate the impacts of global warming. Implementing a combination of technological, policy, and behavioral changes can help control and reduce the levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

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