Mitigation in General Flashcards
1. How can energy consumption be reduced as a mitigation strategy for climate change?
Reducing energy consumption is a crucial mitigation strategy for climate change. One approach is improving insulation in buildings to minimize heat loss and reduce the need for heating and cooling. Switching to low-carbon energy sources such as nuclear, hydropower, solar, and wind is another key aspect. Countries like Iceland have successfully transitioned to using 0% fossil fuels for electricity generation, relying on hydropower and geothermal energy. However, for some countries heavily dependent on oil, like South Sudan, transitioning to low-carbon energy sources may be challenging due to cost and stability issues. Shifting society towards electric power generated from green energy is also important, particularly in the transportation sector where electric vehicles (EVs) can significantly reduce emissions. However, the success of EVs relies on having a green energy grid, and the affordability and infrastructure challenges in developing countries can hinder their widespread adoption. Additionally, low-carbon solutions are needed for industries that cannot be easily electrified, such as aviation and shipping, where alternative fuels and renewable methanol can play a role in reducing emissions.
- How can land use change be combatted as a mitigation strategy for climate change?
Combating land use change is a critical mitigation strategy for climate change. Reducing deforestation is a priority, as it was pledged by over 100 countries at COP26, covering 85% of the world’s forests. However, it is important to note that many afforestation projects face challenges, as saplings often die, and afforested areas store significantly less carbon than primary forests. Improved agricultural techniques can also contribute to climate change mitigation. Practices such as no-till farming, regenerative grazing, and agroforestry help to reduce emissions and promote carbon sequestration. Additionally, protecting and restoring peatlands, which cover 3% of the Earth’s surface but hold 30% of soil carbon, is an effective way to capture carbon. Urbanization, while generally associated with negative environmental impacts, can be managed by promoting dense urban centers instead of urban sprawl, which minimizes the amount of land affected.
- What is solar radiation management (geoengineering) as a mitigation strategy for climate change?
Solar radiation management, a form of geoengineering, involves manipulating the Earth’s energy balance to counteract the greenhouse gas effect. Albedo enhancement or cloud seeding is one approach where clouds are artificially increased to reflect more solar radiation. Space mirrors reflect sunlight to reduce the amount of solar radiation reaching the Earth’s surface. Another method is the release of small reflective particles, known as stratospheric aerosols, into the stratosphere to reduce incoming solar radiation. However, solar radiation management techniques have uncertainties and potential adverse effects, such as changes in rainfall patterns and termination shocks if abruptly stopped, which could lead to rapid temperature increases. Climate modeling is crucial for assessing and understanding the potential impacts of these techniques.
- How does carbon dioxide removal (geoengineering) work as a mitigation strategy for climate change?
Carbon dioxide removal (CDR), a form of geoengineering, aims to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to mitigate climate change. Afforestation and wetland restoration are natural forms of CDR that sequester carbon through the growth of trees and the preservation of wetlands. Direct air capture is another approach that involves extracting carbon dioxide directly from the air and storing it underground. While technologies like direct air capture exist, their current capacity is minimal compared to the billions of tons of emissions released each year. Ocean fertilization, which encourages algae growth by adding nutrients to the oceans, can increase carbon storage in the oceanic store. Additionally, carbon capture and storage (CCS) involves capturing carbon dioxide released from combustion reactions and storing it underground, preventing its release into the atmosphere.
