Evaluation Of The Sustainability Of Strategies To Deal With Climate Change

Question 1

What was the Kyoto Agreement?

Answer 1

An agreement signed by over 180 countries where MEDCs agreed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 5.2% below 1990 levels to slow global warming.

Question 2

Why is the Kyoto Agreement not sustainable? [2]

Answer 2

1. The USA signed up but is reluctant to make cuts to greenhouse gas emissions, fearing that it would damage its economy.
2. Some LEDCs are trying to develop their economy. They feel they need to increase their use of energy to create new jobs and improve standard of living.

Question 3

Why are alternative sources of energy sustainable?

Answer 3

1. Fossil fuels release carbon dioxide as well as other pollutants when burned.
2. Using nuclear power or renewable energy, such as wind, tidal or solar energy, reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
3. Once renewable energy plants are built, the electricity generated is free.

Question 4

Why are alternative sources of energy not sustainable?

Answer 4

They can’t be relied on as a continuous source of energy. For example, solar energy is only available during the daytime.

Question 5

How much energy used in the UK does transport account for?

Answer 5

35% - more than industry, lighting and heating.

Question 6

Explain how the use of private cars has been reduced in the UK.

Answer 6

1. Congestion charge zone in central London charges £8 per visit. This has reduced traffic there by 15%.
2. In Belfast, Park and Ride schemes and bus lanes help commuters get to work more quickly by bus than by car.

Question 7

Explain how deforestation is being reduced.

Answer 7

The President of Guyana is urging rich countries to invest in the sustainable development of rainforest resources, such as nuts, fruits, oils and medicines, rather than cut them down for fuel.

Question 8

Explain why reducing deforestation and preserving rainforests slows down global warming.

Answer 8

Trees absorb carbon dioxide as they grow but deforestation stops this and releases carbon dioxide when the trees are burned.

Question 9

Explain two challenges of securing international co-operation to deal with climate change.

Answer 9

1. People are not willing to make significant lifestyle changes that would cut down greenhouse gas emissions considerably. For instance, people are not willing to give up driving a car.
2. LEDCs want to develop their own industries to catch up with MEDCs, producing lots of carbon dioxide in the process.