climate x Flashcards

(73 cards)

1
Q

What is the primary goal of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)?

A

To stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous interference with the climate system.

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2
Q

When was the UNFCCC adopted?

A

1992

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3
Q

What is the significance of the year 1994 in relation to the UNFCCC?

A

The UNFCCC entered into force.

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4
Q

What are the main objectives of the UNFCCC?

A
  • To reduce greenhouse gas emissions
  • To enhance climate resilience
  • To promote sustainable development
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5
Q

Fill in the blank: The UNFCCC is an international treaty aimed at addressing _______.

A

[climate change]

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6
Q

True or False: The UNFCCC is legally binding for its parties.

A

False

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7
Q

What is the role of Conference of the Parties (COP) in the UNFCCC framework?

A

To review the implementation of the Convention and make decisions to further develop it.

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8
Q

What is the annual meeting of the parties to the UNFCCC called?

A

Conference of the Parties (COP)

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9
Q

What does the term ‘parties’ refer to in the context of the UNFCCC?

A

Countries that have ratified the Convention.

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10
Q

What is the main function of the secretariat of the UNFCCC?

A

To support the Convention and its Protocols by facilitating meetings and providing technical assistance.

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11
Q

What was a significant outcome of the COP 21 held in Paris in 2015?

A

The Paris Agreement was adopted.

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12
Q

What does the Paris Agreement aim to achieve?

A

To limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius compared to pre-industrial levels.

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13
Q

True or False: The Paris Agreement requires all countries to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.

A

True

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14
Q

What is the significance of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) in the context of the UNFCCC?

A

They represent each country’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

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15
Q

Fill in the blank: The UNFCCC includes mechanisms for _______ and adaptation to climate change.

A

[mitigation]

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16
Q

What is the long-term vision of the UNFCCC?

A

To achieve climate neutrality by mid-century.

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17
Q

What is the role of developed countries under the UNFCCC?

A

To provide financial and technological support to developing countries for climate action.

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18
Q

What does the term ‘adaptation’ mean in the context of climate change?

A

Adjustments in practices, processes, or structures to minimize damage from climate change.

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19
Q

What does UNFCCC stand for?

A

United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change

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20
Q

When did the UNFCCC enter into force?

A

21 March 1994

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21
Q

How many countries are parties to the UNFCCC?

A

198 countries

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22
Q

What is the main objective of the UNFCCC?

A

Prevent dangerous human interference with the climate system

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23
Q

What is the goal regarding greenhouse gas concentrations according to the UNFCCC?

A

Stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations at safe levels

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24
Q

What principle inspired the UNFCCC’s acknowledgment of climate change?

A

Montreal Protocol’s precautionary principle

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25
What responsibility do Annex I countries have under the UNFCCC?
Reduce emissions to 1990 levels by the year 2000
26
What kind of support is provided to developing countries under the UNFCCC?
Financial and technological aid through the Global Environment Facility
27
What is required of Annex I countries regarding emissions monitoring?
Submit annual emissions inventories and regular climate policy updates
28
What is the Cancun Adaptation Framework?
Established for coordinated efforts in adaptation initiatives
29
Where is the UNFCCC Secretariat currently located?
Bonn, Germany
30
Who is the Executive Secretary of the UNFCCC as of August 2022?
Simon Stiell
31
What is the main purpose of the UNFCCC Secretariat?
Supports global responses to climate change
32
What major event does the UNFCCC organize annually?
Conference of the Parties (COP)
33
What initiative supports education and training for climate action?
Action for Climate Empowerment (ACE)
34
What are the six elements of Action for Climate Empowerment?
* Education * Public Awareness * Training * Public Participation * Public Access to Information * International Cooperation
35
What is one of the goals of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)?
End poverty
36
What year were the SDGs adopted?
2015
37
What was adopted at the Earth Summit in 1992?
Agenda 21
38
What is the purpose of the High-level Political Forum (HLPF)?
Reviewing and following up on the SDGs
39
Fill in the blank: The UNFCCC is one of three ________ Conventions.
Rio
40
True or False: The SDGs are universal and require action from all countries.
True
41
What is climate?
The average weather conditions over time. ## Footnote Climate refers to long-term patterns rather than short-term weather fluctuations.
42
Define climate change.
A long-term shift in climate patterns, identified by changes in average conditions or variability, lasting decades or more. ## Footnote Climate change can result from natural processes or human activities.
43
What occurs during coral or thermal bleaching?
When stressed, corals expel algae (zooxanthellae), causing them to turn white. ## Footnote This process can lead to coral death if stressful conditions persist.
44
What is a drought?
An extended period of unusually dry weather leading to water shortages. ## Footnote Droughts can have severe impacts on agriculture and water supply.
45
What does the Standardised Precipitation Index (SPI) measure?
Precipitation anomalies over time compared to historical averages. ## Footnote Developed by McKee et al in 1993, SPI is used to assess drought conditions.
46
What causes sea level change?
A rise or fall in sea level caused by ocean water volume changes, land movement, or shifts in Earth’s shape and gravity. ## Footnote Sea level change can impact coastal ecosystems and human settlements.
47
What is the Standardised Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI)?
A drought index that combines rainfall and evaporation to assess drought severity over time. ## Footnote SPEI provides a more comprehensive understanding of water balance in relation to drought.
48
Define storm surge.
A sudden sea level rise at a specific location caused by extreme weather like low pressure or strong winds. ## Footnote Storm surges can lead to coastal flooding and erosion.
49
What is thermal stratification?
The layering of water in lakes or oceans based on temperature differences. ## Footnote This phenomenon affects aquatic ecosystems and oxygen levels in water bodies.
50
Define vulnerability in the context of climate.
The tendency to be harmed due to sensitivity and a reduced ability to cope or adapt. ## Footnote Vulnerability is influenced by social, economic, and environmental factors.
51
What is the main focus of climate change education according to the video?
To foster public awareness and inspire individual and collective action toward a sustainable future. ## Footnote Education is considered foundational for behavioral change.
52
What human activity is identified as a primary driver of global warming?
Burning fossil fuels. ## Footnote This activity releases greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane.
53
By how much has Earth's temperature already increased due to global warming?
1°C.
54
What severe weather events are intensified by global warming?
Heatwaves, droughts, and extreme weather.
55
Which species is mentioned as being threatened by climate change in Australia?
Flying foxes.
56
What urgent need is emphasized regarding carbon emissions?
Global action to reduce carbon emissions and protect biodiversity.
57
What are essential ecosystem services threatened by global warming?
Tropical storms, rising sea levels, and health impacts.
58
What is Trinidad and Tobago's goal for emission reduction under the Paris Agreement?
Cut emissions by 15% across key sectors and 30% in public transport.
59
What system was launched to track progress on emissions in Trinidad and Tobago?
Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) System.
60
Why is educating the public about climate change essential?
To promote sustainable behavior and reduce carbon footprints.
61
What are the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)?
17 global targets addressing poverty, inequality, climate change, education, clean energy, and more.
62
Name three key goals of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
* No Poverty * Climate Action * Quality Education
63
What ecosystem do coral reefs support?
Over 25% of marine life.
64
What relationship do corals rely on for survival?
Symbiotic relationship with zooxanthellae algae.
65
What major threats do coral reefs face?
Climate change, pollution, and human activities.
66
What role do tropical rainforests play in the environment?
Climate regulation, water supply, and carbon absorption.
67
What are the main threats to tropical rainforests?
Deforestation, logging, and agriculture.
68
What is the economic value of mangrove swamps?
Fishing, agriculture, and crafts.
69
What ecological functions do mangroves serve?
* Natural filters * Stabilizing coastlines * Nurseries for fish and wildlife
70
What are some threats faced by Caribbean beaches?
* Pollution * Human activity * Climate change
71
What is the role of seagrasses in marine ecosystems?
* Nurseries for juvenile fish * Stabilizing coastlines * Storing significant amounts of carbon
72
What percentage of the ocean floor do seagrasses cover?
1%.
73
What is a critical requirement for protecting seagrass meadows?
Strong legal frameworks, public education, and community involvement.