Recently, a research study published in the journal ‘Scientific Data’ ranked India fifth among the top ten nations contributing to global warming. This report highlights the contribution of various countries to the rising temperature of the planet and the roles their respective greenhouse gas emissions play in this process.
Key Highlights of the Report
According to the report, the United States leads as the number one contributor, with its emissions causing a 0.28°C rise (17.3%) in global temperature. China stands second, followed by Russia, making up the top three contributors.
India’s Position
From 2005 to now, India has jumped five places, moving from the 10th to the 5th position. The report credits India with causing a warming of 0.08 degrees Celsius since the mid-19th century. The country’s emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) between 1851-2021 have caused a rise of 0.04°C, 0.03°C, and 0.006°C in global temperatures over pre-industrial levels respectively.
Major Causes of Global Warming
The report reveals that the land-use and forestry sector is responsible for significant contributions in half the countries. In Brazil, CO2 emissions via land use, land-use change, and forestry (LULUCF) led to a warming increase by 0.04°C. Furthermore, the LULUCF sector accounted for 38% of CH4-related warming and 72% of N2O-related warming from 1851 to 2021. Emissions tied to historical deforestation and agricultural expansion were also highlighted.
Despite these findings, fossil fuel remains the ultimate contributor. Since 1992, the extra warming caused by global fossil fuel emissions has been over four times greater than that caused by land-use changes.
What are Greenhouse Gases?
Greenhouse gases (GHGs) are gases that absorb and emit radiant energy within the thermal infrared range, resulting in the greenhouse effect. The primary GHGs in Earth’s atmosphere are water vapor (H2O), carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and ozone (O3).
UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
A previous year question from the UPSC Civil Services Examination regarding global warming asked: “In the context of which of the following do some scientists suggest the use of cirrus cloud thinning technique and the injection of sulphate aerosol into stratosphere?” The offered options included creating artificial rain, reducing cyclone intensity, reducing effects of solar wind, and reducing global warming. The correct answer was (d) reducing global warming.
This understanding of India’s contribution to the global climate change problem can lead to a more informed approach when it comes to implementing solutions. It also highlights the urgency of reducing greenhouse gas emissions on both national and global levels.
