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. (250 Words 15 Marks)

Global warming, driven by increased greenhouse gases, intensifies climate change with rising temperatures, sea level, and extreme weather events. The Kyoto Protocol, established in 1997, advocated emission reduction commitments for industrialized nations. Control measures include renewable energy adoption, afforestation, and sustainable practices, promoting a collective effort to mitigate climate change.

UPSC Mains General Studies Paper – 3 Mains 2022

UPSC Mains Civil Services IAS Exam Question Paper – 2022

Approach

• Start with giving a brief introduction of the keyword  “global warming” with context to the atmosphere. 
• Discuss on the The effects of global warming are diverse and impact the global climate system. 
• Explain the key control measures established by the Kyoto Protocol to bring down the level of greenhouse gases which cause global warming. 
• Conclusion to accordingly. 

Introduction  

• Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth’s average surface temperature due to the buildup of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. The primary cause of global warming is human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas, which release carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. 

Body 

The effects of global warming are diverse and impact the global climate system: Many  effects of global warming are diverse and impact the global climate system: 

1. Rising temperatures: Global warming leads to higher average temperatures, affecting weather patterns, causing heat waves, and contributing to the melting of glaciers and polar ice caps. 
2. Changes in precipitation: Global warming alters rainfall patterns, leading to more intense rainfall events in some regions and increased risk of droughts in others. This can have significant implications for agriculture, water availability, and ecosystems. 
3. Sea-level rise: As global temperatures rise, glaciers and ice sheets melt, and the thermal expansion of seawater occurs. These factors contribute to rising sea levels, which can result in coastal erosion, increased flooding, and the loss of coastal habitats. 
4. Extreme weather events: Global warming intensifies extreme weather events such as hurricanes, cyclones, and heavy rainfall events. These events can cause devastating impacts on human settlements, infrastructure, and ecosystems. 
5. Shifts in ecosystems: Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns can lead to shifts in ecosystems, including alterations in plant and animal distribution, disruptions in migration patterns, and the potential loss of biodiversity. 

Control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases which cause global warming with context to the Kyoto Protocol:  

• To address global warming and reduce the emission of greenhouse gases, the Kyoto Protocol was adopted in 1997 as an international agreement under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The key control measures established by the Kyoto Protocol include: 
  1. Binding emission reduction targets: The Kyoto Protocol sets binding emission reduction targets for developed countries (known as Annex I countries) during the commitment period (2008-2012). These targets aimed to collectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an average of 5.2% below 1990 levels. 
  2. Cap-and-trade system: The Kyoto Protocol introduced a cap-and-trade system called the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM). This mechanism allows developed countries to invest in emission reduction projects in developing countries and earn emission reduction credits, which can be used to meet their own reduction targets. 
  3. Promotion of renewable energy and energy efficiency: The Kyoto Protocol encourages the adoption of renewable energy sources and energy-efficient technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It promotes sustainable development practices and the transfer of clean technologies to developing countries. 
  4. Carbon sinks and sequestration: The Kyoto Protocol recognizes the role of carbon sinks, such as forests and land-use practices, in absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. It provides provisions for countries to account for emissions and removals associated with these sinks. 
  5. Compliance mechanisms: The Kyoto Protocol establishes compliance mechanisms to ensure that countries meet their emission reduction targets. This includes regular reporting, review processes, and financial penalties for non-compliance. 

Conclusion  

• Hence, these control measures aim to limit global warming, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on the global climate system. Continued international cooperation, policy implementation, and technological advancements are crucial for achieving the goals outlined in these agreements and ensuring a sustainable and resilient future. 

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