In the intricate tapestry of global climate dynamics, Asia emerges as a critical focal point, where the delicate interplay of natural phenomena and human activities intertwines. As the world transitions into 2023, the state of the climate in Asia stands as a testament to both the resilience of its ecosystems and the pressing challenges confronting its inhabitants. From the majestic peaks of the Himalayas to the sprawling urban landscapes of megacities, the region bears witness to a diverse array of climatic patterns and impacts, each leaving an indelible mark on both the environment and society. Against the backdrop of rising temperatures, shifting precipitation patterns, and intensifying extreme weather events, understanding the state of the climate in Asia is not merely an academic pursuit but a vital imperative for charting a sustainable and equitable future for the continent and beyond.
Tags: GS Paper – 3, Environmental Pollution & Degradation — Conservation
Prelims: World Meteorological Organization, Heatwaves, Glacial lake outbursts, Sundarbans, National Action Plan on Climate Change, National Adaptation Fund on Climate Change
Mains: Effects of Climate Change, Government initiatives, Conservation
Context:
- The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) recently published a report titled “The State of the Climate in Asia 2023,” revealing the concerning effects of climate change in the region.
- The report underscores the dire outcomes of extreme weather occurrences, escalating temperatures, and ecological transformations across Asia.
The Key Highlights of the Report:
Asia as Most Disaster-Prone Region:
- In 2023, Asia faced 79 extreme weather events, impacting more than nine million individuals and resulting in over 2,000 fatalities. Floods and storms caused the most significant casualties and economic damage.
- The region has warmed at a rate exceeding the global average, nearly doubling since the 1961-1990 period.
- The report underscores the alarming acceleration of climate change indicators like surface temperatures, glacier retreat, and sea level rise, highlighting the substantial repercussions for Asia’s economy and ecosystems.
Impacts on India:
- India experienced a range of severe weather events in 2023, including heatwaves, floods, glacial lake outbursts, and tropical cyclones.
- Heatwaves in April and June led to approximately 110 heat stroke-related deaths, with temperatures soaring to 42-43 degrees Celsius in certain areas.
- Southeast Asia, Bangladesh, and eastern India also endured prolonged heat waves in April and May.
- August saw devastating floods in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, causing extensive damage to infrastructure and agriculture.
- Six tropical cyclones formed in the North Indian Ocean, with four making landfall in India. The cyclone activity slightly exceeded the average, with four forming over the Bay of Bengal and two over the Arabian Sea.
- Eastern and northern India experienced the highest temperature rise compared to the 1991-2021 average.
- Sea levels in the Bay of Bengal, particularly in the Sundarbans region, were 30% above the global average, ranking among the highest in the region.
- Elevated Temperatures and Glacial Melt: Asia experienced its second-highest annual mean near-surface temperature in 2023, contributing to the ongoing melting of glaciers in the High Mountain Asia region, which holds a significant ice volume outside the polar areas.
- Decreased Precipitation and Devastating Floods: Precipitation levels across Asia were below average in 2023, with over 80% of reported hydrometeorological hazards being flood and storm-related events. Despite the overall decrease in rainfall, floods remained the primary cause of fatalities, particularly in countries like India, Yemen, and Pakistan.
- Urgent Need for Climate Finance: The report underscores the critical necessity for robust climate finance mechanisms to enhance adaptation efforts and address the impacts of loss and damage in developing countries across Asia.
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO):
- The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) serves as the authoritative voice on Earth’s atmosphere, oceans, climate, and water resources, operating as a specialised agency of the United Nations.
- Originally stemming from the International Meteorological Organization (IMO), which transitioned into a UN agency in 1951, the WMO’s transformation facilitated its enhanced ability to address global meteorological concerns.
- Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, it boasts a membership of 192 Member States and Territories, including India.
- Governed by the World Meteorological Congress as its supreme body, the WMO is structured into six regional associations and eight technical commissions, each dedicated to specific meteorological, hydrological, and related scientific areas.
- World Meteorological Day, commemorated on March 23rd, marks the anniversary of the Convention’s establishment in 1950 and underscores the vital role of National Meteorological and Hydrological Services in ensuring societal safety and well-being, observed through global activities.
What are the Initiatives Related to Climate Change Mitigation?
- India:
- National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC).
- State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC).
- National Adaptation Fund on Climate Change (NAFCC).
- Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC).
- Global:
- Global Loss and Damage Fund:
- Established to address the financial implications of climate change impacts, the Global Loss and Damage Fund serves as a mechanism to assist vulnerable communities and countries in recovering from the adverse effects of climate-related events.
- Global Climate Change Alliance (GCCA):
- Launched as an initiative by the European Union, the GCCA collaborates with developing countries most affected by climate change, leveraging political channels through the European Commission.
- In 2015, it evolved into the GCCA+ to align with the goals of the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, focusing on providing support and building resilience in vulnerable regions.
- Momentum for Change: Climate Neutral Now:
- Launched by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Secretariat in 2015, Climate Neutral Now aims to inspire and assist governments, organisations, and businesses in taking proactive measures towards achieving climate neutrality.
India’s Climate Target:
- Reach 500 GW of Non-fossil energy capacity by 2030.
- 50% of its energy requirements from renewable energy by 2030.
- Reduction of total projected carbon emissions by 1 billion tonnes from now to 2030.
- Reduction of the carbon intensity of the economy by 45% by 2030, over 2005 levels.
- Achieving the target of net zero emissions by 2070.
UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)
Prelims
Q:1 Which of the following best describes/describes the aim of ‘Green India Mission’ of the Government of India? (2016)
- Incorporating environmental benefits and costs into the Union and State Budgets thereby implementing the ‘green accounting’.
- Launching the second green revolution to enhance agricultural output so as to ensure food security to one and all in the future.
- Restoring and enhancing forest cover and responding to climate change by a combination of adaptation and mitigation measures.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans: (c)
Q:1 With reference to ‘Global Climate Change Alliance’, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2017)
- It is an initiative of the European Union.
- It provides technical and financial support to targeted developing countries to integrate climate change into their development policies and budgets.
- It is coordinated by World Resources Institute (WRI) and World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD).
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans: (a)
Q:3 “Momentum for Change: Climate Neutral Now” is an initiative launched by (2018)
(a) The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
(b) The UNEP Secretariat
(c) The UNFCCC Secretariat
(d) The World Meteorological Organisation
Ans: (c)
Mains
Q:1 Describe the major outcomes of the 26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the commitments made by India in this conference? (2021)
Q:2 ‘Climate Change’ is a global problem. How will India be affected by climate change? How Himalayan and coastal states of India are affected by climate change? (2017)
FAQs
FAQ: What were some notable climate events in Asia during 2023?
Answer: In 2023, Asia experienced several significant climate events, including severe typhoons, heatwaves, and flooding. Typhoon season was particularly intense, with several storms causing widespread damage in countries like Japan, the Philippines, and Vietnam. Additionally, heatwaves impacted various parts of the continent, exacerbating heat-related health issues and stressing infrastructure.
FAQ: How did climate change impact agriculture in Asia in 2023?
Answer: Climate change continued to pose challenges to agriculture in Asia in 2023. Erratic rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, and extreme weather events disrupted crop cycles, leading to decreased yields and food shortages in some regions. Farmers faced increased uncertainty and had to adapt their practices to mitigate the effects of changing climatic conditions.
FAQ: Were there any notable efforts to address climate change in Asia during 2023?
Answer: Yes, several countries in Asia intensified their efforts to combat climate change in 2023. This included implementing renewable energy projects, enhancing forest conservation measures, and promoting sustainable development initiatives. Additionally, regional collaborations and agreements aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting climate resilience were forged to address the urgent climate crisis.
FAQ: How did rising sea levels affect coastal regions in Asia in 2023?
Answer: Rising sea levels continued to pose a significant threat to coastal regions in Asia in 2023. Coastal erosion, saltwater intrusion, and increased frequency of storm surges impacted communities and ecosystems along the coastlines. Low-lying island nations, such as the Maldives and Kiribati, faced the prospect of displacement due to the encroaching sea.
FAQ: What were some key findings from climate research and studies conducted in Asia during 2023?
Answer: Climate research in Asia during 2023 produced valuable insights into the region’s vulnerability to climate change. Studies highlighted the link between climate variability and health outcomes, identified areas at high risk of climate-induced disasters, and assessed the effectiveness of adaptation strategies. These findings underscored the need for concerted action to build resilience and mitigate the impacts of climate change in Asia.
In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.
For UPSC Prelims Resources, Click here
For Daily Updates and Study Material:
Join our Telegram Channel – Edukemy for IAS
- 1. Learn through Videos – here
- 2. Be Exam Ready by Practicing Daily MCQs – here
- 3. Daily Newsletter – Get all your Current Affairs Covered – here
- 4. Mains Answer Writing Practice – here
