Carbon Case Studies 3 Flashcards
(266 cards)
1
Q
What percentage of CO2 emissions since the 1980s has come from burning fossil fuels?
A
75%
2
Q
By what percentage have CO2 levels increased since 1750?
A
25%
3
Q
How old are the rocks from which fossil fuels originate?
A
70-100 million years old
4
Q
What percentage of the global energy mix is made up of fossil fuels?
A
85%
5
Q
By how much has energy consumption risen since the 1990s?
A
50%
6
Q
What percentage of China’s oil reserves is compared to Canada’s?
A
10%
7
Q
What is the rate of biomass production called?
A
Primary productivity
8
Q
What is Arctic amplification?
A
The Arctic region is warming twice as fast as the global average
9
Q
What ecological change is occurring in the Arctic tundra due to warming?
A
Increase in shrubs and trees
10
Q
Which animal is moving north and competing with the Arctic fox?
A
Red fox
11
Q
What is predicted for the eastern and western Alps by 2100?
A
They could be ice free
12
Q
What impact does the ice-free Alps have on Europe?
A
Reduces access to water
13
Q
By what percentage did the northwestern Canada ice sheet shrink from 1960 to 2000?
A
22%
14
Q
By how much is precipitation predicted to increase by 2100 in northwestern Canada?
A
20%
15
Q
What river is predicted to flood due to increased precipitation in northwestern Canada?
A
Yukon River
16
Q
What is the percentage of gas in the United Kingdom’s energy mix?
A
35%
17
Q
What percentage of the United Kingdom’s energy mix is made up of wind power?
A
29%
18
Q
A
19
Q
A
20
Q
What is the public concern in the UK regarding energy sources?
A
Nuclear and fracking
21
Q
What does the privatization of the UK’s energy supply industry mean for energy sources?
A
Overseas companies decide which energy sources meet UK demand
22
Q
What were CO2 emissions per capita in the UK in 1980?
A
11 tonnes
23
Q
What were CO2 emissions per capita in the UK in 2015?
A
7 tonnes
24
Q
What percentage of Norway’s energy mix is made up of hydropower?
A
90%
25
What percentage of Norway's energy mix is made up of wind power?
10%
26
What is a significant characteristic of Norway's natural gas and oil production?
Much of Norway's natural gas and oil is exported
27
What is a challenge associated with the transfer of hydropower to users?
Transfer of HEP to users is expensive
28
What technology has allowed Norway and the UK to extract North Sea oil and gas?
Deep water drilling technology
29
What does the Norwegian government do regarding foreign ownership of primary energy source sites?
Government prevents foreign companies from owning primary energy source sites
30
Where does the profit from fossil fuels in Norway go?
Profit from fossil fuels goes to a fund for a future without fossil fuels
31
What is the purpose of the fund that receives profit from fossil fuels in Norway?
To be used for investment in renewables
32
How much carbon do coral reefs store per year?
Over 70 million tonnes of carbon per year
## Footnote
This storage occurs through the process of calcification.
33
What happens to the rate of calcification when coral reefs are bleached?
The rate of calcification drops
## Footnote
Bleaching affects the health and functioning of coral reefs.
34
What effect does increasing CO2 levels have on ocean pH?
Ocean pH drops
## Footnote
This drop makes it harder for coral to calcify, creating a feedback loop.
35
By what percentage did calcification rates fall in the Great Barrier Reef in 2020?
40%
## Footnote
This decline was due to mass bleaching events.
36
What factors have affected the Caribbean reefs?
Hurricanes and warming
## Footnote
These factors contribute to the stress and degradation of coral reefs in the region.
37
What percentage of the world's proven oil reserves does OPEC control?
80%
## Footnote
OPEC is a significant player in global oil markets due to its substantial control over reserves.
38
39
How does OPEC influence oil prices?
Through quotas
## Footnote
Quotas are used to control production levels and stabilize prices.
40
What role does OPEC play in oil markets?
Stabilises oil markets and prevents price collapses while maximising revenues for oil dependent economies
## Footnote
This role is crucial for maintaining economic stability for member countries.
41
What accusations has OPEC faced regarding its operations?
Price manipulation and possibly geopolitical influence
## Footnote
These accusations stem from OPEC's significant control over oil supply and pricing.
42
What significant action did OPEC plus take in 2022?
Cut production by 2,000,000 barrels
## Footnote
This decision caused a global spike in oil prices amidst calls for increased supply due to the Ukraine war.
43
True or False: OPEC aims to maximize revenues for oil-dependent economies.
True
## Footnote
This goal is part of OPEC's strategy to ensure the economic stability of its member countries.
44
What are examples of private TNCs?
ExxonMobil, Shell, BP
## Footnote
These companies are multinational corporations in the oil and gas sector.
45
What do private TNCs control?
Large shares of production and infrastructure
## Footnote
They also drive technological innovation.
46
How much did ExxonMobil invest in capital projects in 2023?
25 billion
## Footnote
This investment boosted infrastructure.
47
What is BP's annual renewable investment goal by 2023?
5 billion dollars
## Footnote
This goal reflects BP's commitment to renewable energy.
48
What drives the actions of private TNCs?
Shareholder interests
## Footnote
This often influences their investment and operational strategies.
49
True or False: Chevron is ranked among the top 10 polluting companies.
True
## Footnote
This ranking highlights environmental concerns associated with its operations.
50
What are state owned transnational corporations?
Corporations owned by a government that operate across national borders
51
Name three examples of state owned transnational corporations.
* Saudi Aramco
* Gazprom
* Petrobras
52
What percentage of global oil reserves is controlled by state owned transnational corporations?
Over 50%
53
What percentage of global natural gas reserves is controlled by state owned transnational corporations?
75%
54
What is a key focus of state owned transnational corporations compared to private corporations?
Long term strategies over profit
55
How do state owned transnational corporations help countries?
They help countries retain control over natural resources
56
What risks are associated with state owned transnational corporations?
Prone to mismanagement and used for political leverage
57
What percentage of Europe's natural gas did Gazprom supply in 2021?
40%
Now it’s below 20%
58
What event in 2022 led to an 80% drop in EU gas imports from Russia?
The invasion of Ukraine
59
What role do governments play in energy markets?
Regulate energy markets and bold strategic reserves and priorities
## Footnote
Governments are responsible for overseeing energy distribution and management.
60
What can governments ensure regarding energy access?
Universal energy access as a public good
## Footnote
This means that all citizens should have access to energy services.
61
What issue can affect government energy policies?
Inconsistency due to elections and budget cuts
## Footnote
Changes in government can lead to shifts in energy policy and funding.
62
What percentage of its energy does Japan import?
94%
## Footnote
This high level of dependency makes Japan vulnerable to global energy market fluctuations.
63
What renewable energy target did Germany set for 2023?
Increase renewables to 50%
## Footnote
This shift towards renewable energy resulted in higher electricity costs.
64
True or False: Japan is self-sufficient in energy production.
False
## Footnote
Japan's reliance on energy imports indicates a lack of self-sufficiency.
65
What role do governments play in energy markets?
Regulate energy markets and bold strategic reserves and priorities
## Footnote
Governments are responsible for overseeing energy distribution and management.
66
What can governments ensure regarding energy access?
Universal energy access as a public good
## Footnote
This means that all citizens should have access to energy services.
67
What issue can affect government energy policies?
Inconsistency due to elections and budget cuts
## Footnote
Changes in government can lead to shifts in energy policy and funding.
68
What percentage of its energy does Japan import?
94%
## Footnote
This high level of dependency makes Japan vulnerable to global energy market fluctuations.
69
What renewable energy target did Germany set for 2023?
Increase renewables to 50%
## Footnote
This shift towards renewable energy resulted in higher electricity costs.
70
True or False: Japan is self-sufficient in energy production.
False
## Footnote
Japan's reliance on energy imports indicates a lack of self-sufficiency.
71
What role do consumers play in corporate energy policies?
Consumers influence demand and shape corporate energy policies through public pressures
## Footnote
Consumers can advocate for sustainable practices and renewable energy sources.
72
How does the push for renewable energies impact resilience?
The push for renewable energies increases resilience
## Footnote
Renewable energy can provide more stable and sustainable energy sources.
73
How many people globally still lack access to electricity?
Over 750 million people globally still lack electricity access
## Footnote
This highlights significant disparities in energy availability.
74
How many homes in California have solar panels?
Over 1.5 million homes in California have solar panels
## Footnote
This contributes to reduced grid dependency.
75
Fill in the blank: Consumers influence demand and shape corporate energy policies through _______.
public pressures
## Footnote
This indicates the power of consumer advocacy.
76
What are choke points in shipping?
8 major choke points where shipping tanker travel through
## Footnote
Choke points are narrow channels that significantly impact maritime trade.
77
What percentage of global oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz?
20%
## Footnote
The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial waterway for oil transport.
78
What is the width of the Strait of Hormuz?
40 km
## Footnote
The narrow width makes it a significant choke point.
79
What natural disaster in 2005 impacted oil production in the USA?
Hurricane Katrina
## Footnote
This hurricane caused significant damage to oil rigs.
80
By what percentage did oil production temporarily reduce due to Hurricane Katrina?
25%
## Footnote
This reduction led to increased oil prices.
81
What was the price of oil per barrel after Hurricane Katrina?
$70
## Footnote
This spike in oil prices was a direct result of production disruptions.
82
What disaster occurred in Japan in 2011 that affected electricity supply?
Fukushima earthquake
## Footnote
This earthquake led to the shutdown of all nuclear power plants.
83
What percentage of Japan's electricity was supplied by nuclear power before the Fukushima disaster?
30%
## Footnote
The shutdown of nuclear plants required a shift to other energy sources.
84
What energy source did Japan switch to after the Fukushima disaster?
Coal
## Footnote
This shift resulted in an increase in CO2 emissions.
85
By what percentage did CO2 emissions rise in Japan after switching to coal?
5%
## Footnote
This increase was due to the reliance on coal for electricity generation.
86
What event in Nigeria reduced oil output by 1,000,000 barrels a day?
Niger Delta militancy in 2006
## Footnote
Rebel groups attacked pipelines and oil infrastructure.
87
How many pirate attacks occurred per year in the Gulf of Aden from 2008 to 2012?
Over 200 pirate attacks per year
## Footnote
This period was marked by significant piracy incidents.
88
What was the UK oil production drop from 2000 to 2020?
From 3 million barrels a day to under 1,000,000
## Footnote
This change increased import dependency and exposure to price shocks.
89
By what percentage did Mexico's oil production fall in the 2000s?
Over 75% in 10 years
## Footnote
This significant decline impacted Mexico's oil output.
90
Fill in the blank: The Niger Delta militancy began in _______.
[2006]
91
True or False: The Gulf of Aden piracy peaked in 2008-2012 with over 200 attacks annually.
True
92
What was a consequence of the UK's oil production drop?
Increased import dependency
## Footnote
This made the UK more vulnerable to global price shocks.
93
What major issue did the Niger Delta militancy target?
Pipelines and oil infrastructure
94
What event in 2020 caused an energy crisis that led to increased coal burning in Europe?
Post Ukraine invasion
## Footnote
This crisis was marked by a rise in energy prices despite green goals.
95
What was the price per barrel during the 2008 oil price spike?
$150
## Footnote
This spike triggered inflation and caused transport disruption.
96
What ongoing conflict involves a battle for control over Syrian territory between Russia and the US?
Syrian conflict
## Footnote
This conflict has implications for proposed oil and gas pipelines through Syria into Europe.
97
By what year is India's energy demand expected to double?
2040
## Footnote
This significant increase reflects the growing energy needs of developing nations.
98
What percentage of India's electricity generation was accounted for by coal in 2022?
70%
## Footnote
This high reliance on coal illustrates the challenges of transitioning to greener energy sources.
99
By what percentage did energy consumption in Southeast Asia grow between 2000 and 2020?
60%
## Footnote
This growth highlights the increasing energy demands in developing regions.
100
What country holds the third largest proven oil reserves globally?
Canada
## Footnote
Specifically, this refers to the tar sands in Canada.
101
How are tar sands typically extracted?
Open cast mining or pumped out
102
Approximately how many jobs does the tar sands industry provide?
140,000 jobs
103
What is the economic contribution of the tar sands to the GDP?
Contributes billions to the GDP
104
Why is extracting oil from tar sands considered expensive?
Requires vast water and energy
105
How do emissions from tar sands compare to conventional oil?
3 to 4 times higher than conventional oil
106
What environmental issue is associated with tailings ponds?
Pollute ground water
107
Which company is mentioned as supporting the tar sands industry?
Imperial Oil
108
What type of groups are damaged by the operations of tar sands?
Indigenous groups
109
What kind of international criticism does tar sands extraction face?
Criticism due to high carbon intensity
110
What is a significant environmental consequence of tar sands extraction?
Huge quantities of waste produced
111
What natural areas are destroyed by tar sands extraction?
Forest and peat bogs
112
By what year could tar sands meet 16% of North America's oil needs?
By 2030
113
What new economic opportunity does the tar sands industry provide?
Provides new jobs
114
What did shale oil production in the USA achieve by 2019?
Made the US the world's top oil producer
## Footnote
This achievement was driven by advancements in extraction technologies.
115
What environmental issue is significant during the extraction of shale oil?
Leaks of methane
## Footnote
Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.
116
Which major companies support shale oil production in the USA?
ExxonMobil and Chevron
## Footnote
These companies are among the largest oil producers globally.
117
Who criticizes shale oil production in Texas?
Local residents and climate activists
## Footnote
Concerns include environmental impact and health risks.
118
What is the potential benefit of shale gas in the UK?
Potential to reduce gas imports
## Footnote
This could enhance energy security for the UK.
119
What limits the extraction of shale gas in the UK?
Limited accessible reserves
## Footnote
The UK's geological conditions restrict available shale gas.
120
What is the public sentiment towards shale gas in the UK?
Strong public opposition
## Footnote
Concerns include environmental degradation and health risks.
121
What temporary benefits could shale gas provide in the UK?
Boost domestic jobs and investment
## Footnote
This could help local economies in the short term.
122
How do the CO2 emissions of shale gas compare to oil?
Potentially less CO2 than oil but more methane
## Footnote
This makes it a complex alternative in terms of climate impact.
123
What significant event did shale gas extraction trigger in Lancaster in 2019?
A3.0 earthquake
## Footnote
This raised concerns about the safety of fracking practices.
124
What actions have been taken against shale gas in the UK?
Banned in 2019
## Footnote
The ban was a response to public opposition and environmental concerns.
125
How many billion barrels of oil does deep water oil in Brazil hold?
70 billion barrels
## Footnote
This is found in pre-salt layers, which are challenging to access.
126
What are the potential benefits of deep water oil in Brazil?
Huge potential for export revenue and job creation
## Footnote
This could significantly impact Brazil's economy.
127
What challenges are associated with deep water oil extraction?
Technologically difficult and high cost
## Footnote
These challenges can limit the pace of development.
128
What environmental risks are associated with deep water oil extraction?
Risk of deep sea spills and disrupt marine biology
## Footnote
These risks can have long-lasting effects on ecosystems.
129
What local environmental concern is associated with deep water oil extraction?
Local pollution
## Footnote
This can affect both marine and coastal environments.
130
What is a key advantage of wind power after installation?
Low operating cost
## Footnote
Wind power has relatively low costs associated with its operation once the initial installation is completed.
131
What was predicted about wind energy's contribution to the UK’s electricity needs by 2020?
It could provide 25%
## Footnote
This prediction highlighted the potential of wind energy in meeting national energy demands.
132
What is a significant drawback of wind power?
Weather dependent
## Footnote
Wind energy generation relies heavily on weather conditions, which can affect its reliability.
133
What can cause opposition to wind power projects?
Visual impacts
## Footnote
The appearance of wind turbines can lead to public opposition, affecting project approvals.
134
What percentage of electricity does wind provide in Denmark?
Over 50%
## Footnote
Denmark is a leading example of successful wind energy integration into its electricity supply.
135
In what year did wind power overtake gas and electricity generation in the UK for the first time?
2023
## Footnote
This milestone indicates a significant shift towards renewable energy sources in the UK's energy generation mix.
136
Which country is the world's largest producer of wind energy?
China
## Footnote
China has established itself as a global leader in wind energy production with over 400 GW of capacity.
137
What height do the wind turbines near the Yorkshire coast reach?
190 meters
## Footnote
These tall turbines have been instrumental in generating significant power for homes.
138
How many homes did the wind turbines completed in 2020 near the Yorkshire coast provide power to?
A million homes
## Footnote
This project also had a notable impact on local employment, creating 2000 construction jobs.
139
Fill in the blank: Wind power was predicted to provide _______ of the UK's electricity needs by 2020.
25%
## Footnote
This represents a significant potential contribution of renewable energy to the national grid.
140
What is the growth percentage of solar usage in the UK from 2014 to 2015?
85%
141
What type of emissions does solar power produce?
0 emissions
142
What is a significant drawback of solar farms?
High land use
143
How much installed solar power does Germany have?
Over 50 GW (180 million solar panels)
144
What impact did Germany's solar power have in 2022?
Reduced reliance on Russia
145
What percentage of California's electricity demand was met by solar in 2022?
28%
146
What is the name of the UK's largest solar farm?
Chapel Lane Solar Farm
147
What percentage of homes in Bournemouth does Chapel Lane Solar Farm serve?
75%
148
What was the cost of Chapel Lane Solar Farm?
£50 million
149
What area does Chapel Lane Solar Farm cover?
Equivalent to 175 football pitches
150
Fill in the blank: Some argue that the land used for solar farms should be producing _______.
food
151
True or False: Solar power is widely accessible.
True
152
What percentage of Japan's electricity was supplied by nuclear power before the 2011 earthquake?
30%
153
What is the estimated cost of the Hinkley Point C project in the UK?
£18 billion
154
How many jobs will the Hinkley Point C project provide?
25,000 jobs
155
How long will the Hinkley Point C project provide energy?
60 years
156
What can biofuel be blended with?
Existing fuels
157
What infrastructure is needed for biofuel?
No infrastructure needed
158
What type of waste does biofuel utilize in rural economies?
Agricultural waste
159
What conflict can arise from biofuel production?
Food versus fuel conflicts
160
What environmental risk is associated with biofuel production?
Risk of deforestation
161
What percentage of the USA's corn is used for fuel?
40%
162
Which country was the first to produce biofuel and what crop did it use?
Brazil; sugar cane
163
By what percentage does bioethanol fuel emit less CO2 than petrol?
80% less
164
Since when has Brazil's use of biofuel reduced CO2 emissions by 350 million tons?
2003
165
What has Malaysia done to accommodate oil palm planting?
Cleared forests
166
What crop is planted in the EU grid for biofuel?
Oilseed rape
167
What crop is planted in the USA grid for biofuel?
Maize
168
What social issue has arisen in Brazil due to biofuel production?
Social unrest
169
What has happened to Brazilian farmers due to biofuel production?
Lost land and reduced ability to grow food
170
What do biofuels need for burning to start?
Fossil fuels
171
What is the impact of biofuel crop production growth from 2007 to 2015 in the American Midwest?
Disappearance of 5 million hectares of natural grassland
172
What has increased due to the growth of biofuel crop production?
Use of fertilizers, water use, and CO2 release
173
What can hydrogen fuel cells store?
Surplus renewable electricity
## Footnote
Hydrogen fuel cells can help balance energy supply and demand by storing excess electricity generated from renewable sources.
174
What is a major challenge associated with hydrogen fuel cells?
High production cost and needs new infrastructure
## Footnote
The development of hydrogen fuel cells requires significant investment in new infrastructure to support their use.
175
Which country plans to be the world's first hydrogen society?
Japan
## Footnote
Japan's strategy was influenced by the Fukushima disaster, prompting a shift towards hydrogen as a clean energy source.
176
How much has Germany invested in green hydrogen?
€9 billion
## Footnote
This investment aims to reduce dependence on gas imports through the promotion of green hydrogen technology.
177
What target has South Korea set regarding hydrogen vehicles?
6.2 million hydrogen vehicles by 2040
## Footnote
This ambitious target reflects South Korea's commitment to advancing hydrogen technology in transportation.
178
What is required to separate hydrogen from other elements?
Energy
## Footnote
The process of hydrogen extraction is energy-intensive, which can impact the overall efficiency and sustainability of hydrogen as a fuel.
179
What is a notable characteristic of electric vehicles?
Highly efficient
## Footnote
Electric vehicles convert a larger portion of electrical energy from the grid to power at the wheels compared to traditional vehicles.
180
What impact do electric vehicles have on urban air pollution?
Reduce Urban Air pollution
## Footnote
By eliminating tailpipe emissions, electric vehicles contribute to cleaner air in urban areas.
181
What is a significant drawback of battery production for electric vehicles?
High material demand such as lithium which is toxic
## Footnote
The extraction and processing of lithium can have environmental and health impacts, raising concerns about sustainability.
182
What is a challenge regarding the cost of electric vehicles?
High cost
## Footnote
The initial purchase price of electric vehicles is generally higher compared to conventional vehicles, which can be a barrier for consumers.
183
What percentage of new car sales in Norway from 2023 have been hydropower?
90%
## Footnote
This statistic highlights Norway's commitment to renewable energy and its integration into the automotive sector.
184
How many electric vehicles are on the road in China?
14,000,000
## Footnote
China has become a leader in the electric vehicle market, contributing significantly to the global transition to electric mobility.
185
What significant policy will the UK implement regarding petrol and diesel cars?
Ban petrol and diesel cars from 2035
## Footnote
This move is part of the UK's broader strategy to reduce carbon emissions and promote electric vehicles.
186
What is a limitation of electric vehicles regarding travel?
Don’t travel long distances without needing charged
## Footnote
The range of electric vehicles can be limited, requiring careful planning for long trips to ensure access to charging stations.
187
How many hectares of primary forest did Indonesia lose between 2002 and 2022?
10 million hectares
## Footnote
This significant loss is attributed to factors such as palm oil expansion, logging, and mining.
188
What are the main causes of deforestation in Indonesia?
Expansion of palm oil plantations, logging, and mining
## Footnote
These activities have led to severe impacts on wildlife, including endangered species.
189
Which endangered species are affected by deforestation in Indonesia?
Orangutans and tigers
## Footnote
Their habitats are being destroyed due to logging and land conversion.
190
How much CO2 was released due to peatland drainage in Indonesia during 2015?
Over 1.5 billion tonnes
## Footnote
This highlights the environmental impact of land use changes.
191
What ban was enacted in Indonesia in 2011?
Ban on clearing primary forests and peatlands
## Footnote
This was an effort to curb deforestation and protect ecosystems.
192
What temporary measure has been taken regarding palm oil concessions in Indonesia?
Temporary ban on new palm oil concessions
## Footnote
This aims to limit further deforestation for palm oil production.
193
What percentage of the original extent of the Amazon has Brazil lost?
18%
## Footnote
This loss raises concerns about biodiversity and climate change.
194
What has happened to enforcement of logging regulations in Brazil under the new president?
Enforcement weakened and logging increased
## Footnote
This has significant implications for forest conservation efforts.
195
What is the current status of the Amazon regarding carbon emissions?
Becoming a carbon source not a carbon sink
## Footnote
This change affects global climate dynamics.
196
What percentage of the world's known species is hosted by the Amazon?
10%
## Footnote
This highlights the Amazon's critical role in global biodiversity.
197
What technology does Brazil use to track illegal logging?
Satellite monitoring
## Footnote
This method helps in detecting and preventing illegal deforestation.
198
How much has the forest area increased in the EU since 1990?
10 million hectares
## Footnote
This increase is primarily due to afforestation efforts.
199
How many hectares of forest burned across Europe in 2020 due to wildfires?
800,000 hectares
## Footnote
This event underscores the impact of climate change on forest fires.
200
What are the EU's goals for forest protection and tree planting by 2030?
30% of forests to be protected and 3 billion trees to be planted
## Footnote
These goals aim to enhance biodiversity and combat climate change.
201
What years experienced drought in the Amazon?
2005, 2010, and 2015
## Footnote
These droughts significantly impacted the ecosystem and carbon storage capacity.
202
What percentage of the terrestrial vegetation carbon store does the Amazon basin hold?
7%
## Footnote
This highlights the importance of the Amazon in the Earth's carbon cycle.
203
What trend is observed in the growth rates of the Amazon rainforest?
Declining
## Footnote
This decline can have serious implications for biodiversity and carbon storage.
204
What environmental impact do forest fires have in the Amazon?
Burnt trees and litter
## Footnote
This contributes to carbon emissions and habitat destruction.
205
What has happened to Madagascar's forests since the 1950s?
Cleared rapidly
## Footnote
This deforestation has severe ecological consequences.
206
What economic reason led the government of Madagascar to encourage land clearing?
Demand for tropical hardwood
## Footnote
Farmers were encouraged to grow cash crops for foreign currency and debt repayment.
207
By what year had two-thirds of Madagascar's forests been lost?
1985
## Footnote
This significant loss has led to increased environmental issues.
208
What environmental change has occurred in Madagascar due to deforestation?
More flooding with high flood peaks and short lag times
## Footnote
This change increases the risk of natural disasters.
209
What effect does deforestation have on sunlight reaching the forest floor?
More sunlight reaches the forest floor
## Footnote
This can alter the ecosystem dynamics.
210
What happens to material in deforested areas of Madagascar?
Decays faster
## Footnote
This can affect nutrient cycling and soil health.
211
What is a consequence of soil erosion in Madagascar?
Increased leaching reduces minerals
## Footnote
This negatively impacts soil fertility and agricultural productivity.
212
What percentage of coral cover has the Great Barrier Reef lost since 1985?
Over 50%
## Footnote
This loss could impact food security for over 120 million people.
213
What pH rate could the ocean reach by 2100 if CO2 levels continue to rise?
7.8
## Footnote
This change could lead to the dissolution of coral skeletons.
214
What percentage of all CO2 produced by humans since 1800 have oceans absorbed?
30%
## Footnote
Of this, 50% has come from fossil fuels.
215
What happens to pH levels in oceans as they absorb CO2?
pH decreases, making the ocean more acidic.
216
What is the impact of ocean acidification on marine life?
Causes fewer marine calcifiers and less carbon stored.
217
Fill in the blank: The Great Barrier Reef's coral cover loss could cause loss of food security for over _______ million people.
120
218
What threatens coastal communities in Bangladesh and India?
Mangrove deforestation and rising risks of storm surges
## Footnote
4.5 million people are at risk due to these factors.
219
What percentage of global mangroves have been lost since 1950?
50%
## Footnote
25% of this loss is attributed to tourism.
220
What was the impact of overfishing in Canada?
30,000 jobs lost
## Footnote
This situation can lead to youth migration.
221
By what percentage have fish stocks in West Africa, including Senegal, been reduced?
Up to 50%
## Footnote
This loss has also caused youth migration.
222
How many people rely on fisheries for food and income globally?
520 million people
223
What type of drugs are Caribbean sponges threatened by warming waters providing?
Anti-cancer and antiviral drugs
224
What research has been conducted in Hawaii using compounds from coral?
Research for Alzheimer's and HIV treatments
225
What percentage of GDP does reef-based tourism contribute to the Maldives?
30%
226
What percentage of tourist revenue did Jamaica lose in 2020 due to declining reef health?
75%
227
How much carbon do mangrove forests sequester per hectare every year?
1.5 metric tonnes
228
If 2% of the world's mangroves are lost, how much carbon will be released compared to the natural sequestration rate?
50 times the natural sequestration rate
229
What does the rate of melt depend on?
Asian warming which is uncertain
## Footnote
This uncertainty impacts predictions about future climate scenarios.
230
What is predicted to happen at 20% deforestation in the Amazon?
The Amazon could shift into a Savannah like state
## Footnote
This ecological shift could have significant impacts on biodiversity and climate.
231
What is the expected population of Africa by 2100?
3.9 billion
## Footnote
This represents a substantial increase from the current population of 1.5 billion.
232
When is India's population expected to surpass 1.7 billion?
By 2060
## Footnote
This growth will have implications for resources and infrastructure.
233
What goal does China have regarding carbon neutrality?
To be carbon neutral by 2060
## Footnote
This goal reflects China's efforts to address climate change.
234
What percentage of electricity did Germany's renewables hit in 2023?
Over 50%
## Footnote
This milestone showcases Germany's commitment to renewable energy sources.
235
What is the potential of the Sahara regarding electricity?
To power the world
## Footnote
Despite this potential, over 600 million Africans still lack electricity.
236
How much carbon did Canada's 2023 wildfires emit?
1 billion tonnes
## Footnote
This significant emission contributes to global carbon levels and climate change.
237
What adaptation method does the Netherlands delta programme utilize?
Integrates water management with urban planning
## Footnote
The programme includes features like floating homes and flood resilient infrastructure.
238
What was done to vulnerable properties in New York due to flood zones?
Bought by the government and turned into green spaces
## Footnote
This measure helps to mitigate flood risks and enhance urban resilience.
239
What are climate smart villages in India designed to do?
Combine drought resistant seeds, water harvesting, and ICT weather forecasting
## Footnote
This approach increased agricultural yields by 30% and improved food security.
240
What environmental improvement was achieved in Niger?
Re-grew over 5 million hectares of trees
## Footnote
This initiative improved soil fertility and boosted crop yields for farmers.
241
Fill in the blank: The Netherlands delta programme includes _______ to adapt to flood-prone areas.
floating homes
242
True or False: The adaptation methods discussed include only urban planning strategies.
False
## Footnote
The methods also encompass agricultural systems and environmental restoration.
243
What is one key benefit of the climate smart villages initiative in India?
Increased agricultural yields by 30%
## Footnote
This is significant for enhancing food security in the region.
244
List two components of climate smart villages in India.
* Drought resistant seeds
* Water harvesting
245
Fill in the blank: The adaptation methods in the Netherlands include integrating water management with _______.
urban planning
246
What percentage of wastewater does Israel recycle?
Over 85%
## Footnote
This high percentage reflects Israel's advanced water management practices.
247
What significant legislation did California release in 2014?
A groundwater management act
## Footnote
This act mandates long-term sustainability of aquifers in California.
248
Fill in the blank: Israel recycles over _______ of its wastewater.
85%
## Footnote
This demonstrates Israel's commitment to water conservation.
249
True or False: California's groundwater management act focuses on short-term water usage.
False
## Footnote
The act emphasizes long-term sustainability.
250
What is the main purpose of the Boundary Dam project in Canada?
To capture 1,000,000 tonnes of CO2 a year and reduce emissions by 90%
## Footnote
The Boundary Dam project is a significant example of carbon capture and storage technology.
251
Where in Norway was CO2 captured, and how much?
In a deep saline aquifer, capturing 1,000,000 tonnes of CO2 annually
## Footnote
This method is part of efforts to mitigate climate change through carbon capture.
252
What major environmental initiative is China's Great Green Wall?
A project consisting of 66 billion trees to combat desertification
## Footnote
This initiative aims to reduce the effects of desertification in northern China.
253
How many trees were planted during Ethiopia's Green Legacy campaign from 2019 to 2023?
25 billion trees
## Footnote
This campaign is part of Ethiopia's efforts to combat climate change and improve the environment.
254
What action did the Indonesian president take in 2011 regarding deforestation?
Stopped giving permits for clearing forests
## Footnote
This policy aimed to reduce deforestation rates and emissions in Indonesia.
255
By how much did emissions fall in Indonesia from 2011 to 2020?
Fell by 26%
## Footnote
This reduction was achieved through stricter regulations on deforestation.
256
What was the annual loss of hectares of forest globally from 2010 to 2015?
7.6 million hectares
## Footnote
This statistic highlights the ongoing global challenge of deforestation.
257
What was China’s goal for forested area increase from 2015 to 2020?
To increase the forested area by 23%
## Footnote
This goal reflects China's commitment to environmental sustainability.
258
What achievement has Brazil made regarding deforestation since 2000?
Halved deforestation
## Footnote
Brazil's efforts have been significant in reducing forest loss in the Amazon.
259
What energy efficiency improvement has Japan achieved since 1999?
70% improvement in some sectors
## Footnote
Japan set specific energy efficiency targets to drive this improvement.
260
What percentage cut in energy use did the EU achieve by 2020 from 2012?
9.5%
## Footnote
This reduction was aided by mandatory cuts of energy for large firms.
261
What percentage reduction in carbon emissions did Sweden achieve with its carbon tax in 1991?
27%
## Footnote
Sweden's GDP grew by 75% during this period.
262
What is the current carbon tax rate in Canada?
$65 per tonne of carbon
## Footnote
This tax has decreased emissions by 15% without harming the economy.
263
What percentage of Germany's energy mix is made up of renewable electricity?
Over 50%
## Footnote
Germany has significantly transitioned to renewable energy sources.
264
What is the name of the world's largest solar plant, and where is it located?
Morocco's solar plant
## Footnote
This plant powers over 1,000,000 homes.
265
What is Morocco's goal for renewable energy by 2030?
52 percent renewable energy
## Footnote
This goal reflects Morocco's commitment to sustainable energy.
266
What is the main objective of the Paris Agreement established in 2015?
To limit global warming below 2°
## Footnote
The agreement legally binds 196 countries.
