The United Nations (UN) recently issued a warning about the unprecedented increase in greenhouse gas concentrations in our atmosphere. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO)’s 19th Annual Greenhouse Gas Bulletin gives new insights concerning the dangerous implications of this trend, including rising temperatures, severe weather events, and elevation of sea levels.
Important Highlights from the Bulletin
The WMO’s Bulletin highlighted how carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide levels have all reached new record highs. Alarmingly, the global mean temperature in 2022 already exceeded the 1.5°C target outlined in the Paris Agreement, indicating an ominous future of extreme weather conditions and environmental deterioration.
Understanding Greenhouse Gases
Greenhouse gases (GHGs) occur naturally but are also generated by human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial operations. GHGs trap heat within the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect that regulates Earth’s temperature. However, the increased concentration of GHGs intensifies the greenhouse effect, leading to global warming and climate change.
Key Contributors to Rising Greenhouse Gas Concentrations
Several factors contribute to the increase in greenhouse gases. Predominantly, the burning of fossil fuels for energy production, transportation, and industrial activities leads to significant CO2 emissions. Changes in land use, deforestation, agricultural practices, improper waste management, and population growth also considerably contribute. In addition, permafrost thaw due to rising temperatures releases potent methane, creating a feedback loop further accelerating global warming.
Potential Consequences of Rising Greenhouse Gas Levels
Increased GHGs can lead to severe changes in global climates, including extreme weather events, rising temperatures, and unpredictable rainfall patterns. Warming temperatures cause ice caps to melt, elevating sea levels and posing significant threats to coastal communities and biodiversity. Changes in climatic conditions can also adversely affect agricultural productivity, potentially leading to food and water scarcity. Geopolitical tensions may also arise due to climate-induced displacement and competition for resources.
Global and Local Initiatives to Curb Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Several key initiatives have been undertaken globally and in India to combat the surge in greenhouse gas emissions. These include the Kyoto Protocol, Paris Agreement, International Solar Alliance, Global Biofuel Alliance, and Bharat Stage-VI (BS-VI) emission norms. Moreover, the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), Energy Conservation (Amendment) Act 2022, and India’s Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) are some measures at the national level.
Effective Strategies to Mitigate Climatic Disruptions
Mitigation strategies include the implementation of policies and technologies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions across industries such as energy, transportation, agriculture, and more. Adaptation measures involve developing strategies to cope with the impacts of climate change. This includes enhancing the resilience of infrastructure and planning for extreme weather events. International collaboration through agreements and partnerships is also crucial to effectively address climate change.
Past UPSC Civil Services Examination Questions on Global Warming
Previous UPSC examinations have presented questions discussing the effects of global warming on the global climate and measures to mitigate greenhouse gases in the context of the Kyoto Protocol. They have also addressed the impact of global warming on the coral life system and the potential effects of climate change on India, particularly in Himalayan and coastal regions.
