Environmental Studies Exam #2 (Test)

What is the difference between weather and climate?

Weather refers to the short term state of the atmosphere, while climate refers to the long term average of atmospheric conditions.

What is the greenhouse effect?

The greenhouse effect is the trapping of heat in the Earth's atmosphere by greenhouse gases like CO2.

As of 2023, how much warmer is the world compared to pre-industrial levels?

The temperature was 1.48 degrees Celsius or 2.66 degrees Fahrenheit above pre-industrial levels.

What percentage of global greenhouse gas emissions comes from carbon dioxide?

Carbon dioxide accounts for 76% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

What are the three working groups of the IPCC?

Working Group 1 studies the science of climate change, Working Group 2 assesses impacts and vulnerabilities, and Working Group 3 focuses on mitigation.

What is a key goal of the Paris Agreement regarding temperature rise?

To keep the rise in global temperatures below 2°C and to pursue efforts to limit temperature increase to 1.5°C.

Who are considered the most vulnerable to climate change?

Young children, the elderly, poor populations, minorities, and communities in less developed countries.

What is meant by 'tragedy of the commons'?

The tragedy of the commons refers to the overuse and depletion of shared resources due to individuals acting in their own self-interest.

What impacts does climate change have on food security?

Climate change negatively impacts crop yields and freshwater supplies, which are sensitive to changes in water and temperature.

What can adaptation to climate change entail?

Adaptation involves making adjustments to minimize the negative impacts of climate change, such as building seawalls or changing agricultural practices.

How much CO2 was in the atmosphere before 1979, and how has this changed by February 2024?

Before 1979, CO2 concentrations were 337 ppm, and by February 2024, it rose to 425.40 ppm.

What are the main sources of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S.?

The main sources are transportation (28%), electric power (25%), and industry (23%).

What is the ecological modernization perspective on environmental issues?

Ecological modernization argues that economic growth and environmental protection can coexist and emphasizes improving technology and efficiency.

What does 'sustainable development' focus on?

Sustainable development focuses on meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

What is the difference between GNP and GPI?

GNP focuses solely on economic output, while GPI considers environmental and social indicators along with economic factors.

What role does the IPCC play in climate science?

The IPCC assesses scientific, technical, and socio-economic information to understand human-induced climate change and its potential impacts.

What does 'mitigation' in the context of climate change mean?

Mitigation refers to human interventions aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions or enhancing the sinks that absorb these gases.

How do common pool resources lead to environmental challenges?

Common pool resources are vulnerable to overuse because individuals seek personal gain, leading to collective loss.

What is a significant negative impact of climate change on human health?

Climate change increases risks related to heat stress, respiratory issues, and the spread of tropical diseases.

What innovative example shows how the tragedy of the commons could be resolved?

Establishing management systems, such as community agreements or government regulations, could help manage shared resources.

What is one major challenge in achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement?

The ambition gap between emission reduction goals and actual action being taken by various countries.