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Subject: Climate Change

1. Global Warming and Issues
2. All about Pollution

  • Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs) by IPCC

    In the news

    • This newscard is an excerpt from an original article published in the TIE.

    What are Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs)?

    • The Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs) were rolled out as part of the Fifth Assessment Report (AR5) of the IPCC in 2014.
    • These are basically emission scenarios that depict pathways of greenhouse gas and aerosol emissions resulting from human activities over time, crucial for climate modelling and forecasting.
    • These pathways were introduced to provide a consistent set of GHGs concentration trajectories for climate modelling and research purposes.
    • The RCPs were officially selected and defined based on their total radiative forcing levels in the year 2100.

    These pathways describe various climate change scenarios based on the amount of greenhouse gases emitted.

    1. RCP 2.6: Limits global warming to less than 2°C above pre-industrial levels while also attempting to keep ocean acidification under control. Greenhouse gas emissions must be reduced significantly compared to current levels.
    2. RCP 4.5: Reflects an intermediate scenario where emissions peak around 2040 and then gradually decrease. Global mean temperature rise is projected to reach approximately 2°C above pre-industrial levels by 2100.
    3. RCP 6: Stabilizes radiative forcing at 6 watts per square meter (W/m²) after 2100 following peaking around mid-century. It aims to achieve a lower level of global warming but does not exclude temporary overshoots beyond 2°C.
    4. RCP 8.5: Presents a high-emission scenario characterized by increasing radiative forcing throughout the century. By 2100, it results in a global mean temperature increase of over 4°C above pre-industrial levels.

    Back2Basics: Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)

    Description
    Establishment Established in 1988 by WMO and UNEP
    Membership 195 member countries.
    Objective Assess scientific info on human-induced climate change, impacts, and mitigation/adaptation options.
    Main Activity Prepares assessment, special, and methodology reports, crucial for international climate negotiations.
    Scientific Research Relies on global scientific community for literature review and conclusions.
    Working Groups Comprises three groups:

    1. I (climate physics),
    2. II (impacts/adaptation), and
    3. III (mitigation)
    Reports Each group issues reports, compiled into a synthesis report.

    Try this PYQ from CSP 2018:

    “Momentum for Change: Climate Neutral Now” is an initiative launched by:

    (a) Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change

    (b) UNEP Secretariat

    (c) UNFCCC Secretariat

    (d) World Meteorological Organisation

    [wpdiscuz-feedback id=”vot1xq3ins” question=”Please leave a feedback on this” opened=”1″]Post your answers here.[/wpdiscuz-feedback]

  • What are ‘Super Pollutants’?

    Why in the News?

    • Recently, the annual meeting of the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) which took place from 21 to 23 February 2024 in Nairobi, Kenya on the margins of the Sixth session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-6) highlighted the critical importance of international collaboration in combating short-lived climate pollutants, commonly known as “Super Pollutants.”

    What are Super Pollutants?

    • Super pollutants, or short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs), have a shorter atmospheric lifespan compared to CO2 but significantly impact climate change and air quality. Methane (CH4), black carbon (soot), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), and tropospheric ozone (O3) are some of the major superpollutants.

    Impacts of Super Pollutants

    • Methane (CH 4):
      • Characteristics: Potent greenhouse gas emitted from various sources such as livestock and fossil fuel production.
      • Its Impact: Traps heat in the atmosphere, exacerbating climate change.
    • Black Carbon (Soot):
      • Characteristics: Fine particulate matter from incomplete combustion of fuels.
      • Its Impact: Absorbs sunlight, heats the atmosphere, and accelerates the melting of snow and ice.
    • Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs):
      • Characteristics: Synthetic greenhouse gases used in refrigeration.
      • Its Impact: High global warming potential despite short atmospheric lifespan.
    • Tropospheric Ozone (O3):
      • Characteristics: Secondary pollutants formed from VOCs and NOx.
      • Its Impact: Contributes to smog, has adverse health effects, and acts as a greenhouse gas.

    About Climate and Clean Air Conference 2024:

    • What is the aim and objective?
      • The CCAC 2024 moved the dialogue forward, focusing on the cost of inaction, highlighting ways to further scale up implementation of the Global Methane Pledge, Clean Air Flagship and Kigali Amendment, and collectively charting the course to 2025 and beyond.
    • What did the CCAC 2024 Feature for?
      • National policy and planning: High-level plenary sessions on global, regional and national efforts to reduce methane, black carbon, and HFCs, including the benefits of fast action, and financing for implementation.
      • Science and Technology: Science Policy Dialogue sessions on latest emerging science and how new information can inform policy development. Technical sessions among CCAC Sector Hub members to showcase best practices in key emitting sectors: agriculture, cooling, fossil fuels, heavy-duty vehicles and engines, household energy, and waste.
      • Focus on Implementation: Practical sessions to further refine work plans among CCAC National Consultants; Non-State Partners and Scientific Advisory Panel Members.
    • What are the Functions?
      • The CCAC works at the nexus of climate and air quality, to deliver multiple benefits from the fast mitigation of short-lived climate pollutants.
      • Driven by policy-relevant science and pragmatism, CCAC works from the ground up, equitably and inclusively, empowering our partners to achieve their respective National Goals and catalyzing action — as well as from the top down, bringing together ministers and leaders to drive high-level ambition.
    • About the previous Conference:
      • The CCAC 2023 was held in Bangkok.
      • As an outcome of this conference, CCAC 2023 integrated planning on climate and clean air is essential to identify priority actions in key emitting sectors to scale up mitigation, and action at the national and regional level is motivating collaboration at the global scale.

  • What are IPCC’s Assessment Reports?

    ipcc

    Introduction

    • Since 1988, the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has been pivotal in assessing climate science and guiding global responses to climate change through its assessment reports and special publications.
    • Last years’ Sixth Assessment Report (AR6) underscores the urgency of addressing climate change, highlighting the need to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.

    About IPCC

    Description
    Establishment Established in 1988 by WMO and UNEP
    Membership 195 member countries.
    Objective Assess scientific info on human-induced climate change, impacts, and mitigation/adaptation options.
    Main Activity Prepares assessment, special, and methodology reports, crucial for international climate negotiations.
    Scientific Research Relies on global scientific community for literature review and conclusions.
    Working Groups Comprises three groups:

    1. I (climate physics),
    2. II (impacts/adaptation), and
    3. III (mitigation)
    Reports Each group issues reports, compiled into a synthesis report.

    Key Findings of AR6

    • Urgent Warning: AR6 warns that time is running out to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius and stresses the need for immediate action to mitigate climate change impacts.
    • Adaptation Challenges: The report highlights challenges in adapting to climate change and offers strategies to enhance resilience in natural and human-made systems.

    Initiation of AR7 Cycle

    • IPCC Bureau Meeting: In January 2024, the IPCC initiated its seventh assessment cycle (AR7) with a bureau meeting in Turkey to discuss budgeting, timelines, and the work program.
    • Lessons from AR6: Insights from the AR6 cycle, along with member country submissions, informed discussions on the structure and focus of the upcoming reports.

    Global Stocktake and IPCC’s Role

    • Assessing Progress: The global stocktake (GST) evaluates progress towards the Paris Agreement goals, with the IPCC playing a crucial role in providing scientific input.
    • Alignment with Stocktake: Member countries request IPCC reports to align with the GST, facilitating comprehensive assessments of climate action effectiveness.

    Scope and Timeline of AR7 Cycle

    • Report Components: The AR7 cycle will include full assessment reports, synthesis reports, methodology reports, and a special report on climate change and cities.
    • Revised Guidelines: Methodology reports will cover short-lived climate forcers and carbon removal, while technical guidelines on impacts and adaptation will be updated.
    • Publication Timeline: The bureau aims to publish special and methodology reports by 2027, with the timeline for assessment reports pending further discussion.

    Challenges and Considerations

    • Time Constraints: Balancing the need for timely reports with the rigorous review process and evolving climate research poses challenges.
    • Content Integrity: Shortened timelines may affect the depth and breadth of the reports, potentially compromising their scientific rigor and inclusivity.
    • Engagement Complexity: Limited timeframes may hinder effective engagement with under-represented communities and stakeholders, impacting report quality.

    Conclusion

    • The initiation of IPCC’s AR7 cycle marks a critical juncture in global climate science, emphasizing the urgency of addressing climate change.
    • Despite challenges, the IPCC remains committed to delivering comprehensive and scientifically robust assessments to guide climate action.
    • Collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and stakeholders will be essential in navigating the complexities of climate science and fostering sustainable solutions for a resilient future.

  • Collapse of the Gulf Stream System

    gulf stream

    Central Idea

    • Recent research warns that the Gulf Stream System, known as the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), faces a critical threat of collapse due to unabated global carbon emissions.
    • If left unchecked, this collapse could occur between 2025 and 2095, with a central estimate of 2050.

    What is Gulf Stream System?

    Description
    Origin Begins in the Gulf of Mexico, merging warm waters from the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico.
    Flow Flows northward along the eastern coast of the United States.
    Current Carries warm waters from the tropics towards higher latitudes.
    Speed and Volume Swift ocean currents with speeds of 2 to 5 miles per hour, transporting 30 million cubic meters per second.
    Function Redistributes heat towards the North Atlantic region, influencing climate and weather patterns.
    Climate Impact Moderates the climate of Western Europe, keeping it relatively warmer than other regions at similar latitudes.
    Interaction with Atmosphere Releases heat and moisture, influencing weather and precipitation.
    Importance for Marine Life Supports diverse marine life, serving as a migratory route for fish and marine mammals.

    Gulf Stream’s Vulnerability

    • Gulf Stream, currently at its feeblest point in 1,600 years, is grappling with the consequences of global heating.
    • Alarming signals of a tipping point were already observed back in 2021.
    • Past collapses during ice ages have triggered rapid temperature shifts of up to 10 degrees Celsius in just a few decades, underlining the immense climatic impact it holds.

    Implications of Collapse

    The potential collapse of Gulf Stream could lead to dire consequences worldwide, including:

    • Disrupted Rainfall Patterns: Billions of people in regions like India, South America, and West Africa, reliant on these patterns for food production, would face food insecurity.
    • Intensified Storms and Colder Temperatures: Europe would experience increased storm activity and colder temperatures.
    • Rising Sea Levels: The eastern coast of North America would be at risk of rising sea levels, posing threats to coastal communities.
    • Endangered Ecosystems: The Amazon rainforest and Antarctic ice sheets could face severe endangerment.

  • Why fashion industry’s ‘recycling’ methods are not saving the planet?

    fashion

    Introduction

    • From fast-fashion giants to luxury brands, many have embraced recycled fabrics and eco-friendly messaging as part of their marketing strategies.
    • However, a closer look reveals that these recycling methods often fall short of delivering meaningful environmental benefits.

    Challenges in Fashion Industry Recycling

    [1] Greenhouse Gas Emissions:

    • Polyester, a ubiquitous fabric, contributes substantially to emissions, with 28.2 million tonnes used in 2016 alone, emitting nearly triple the CO2 compared to cotton.
    • Nylon production generates nitrous oxide, a potent greenhouse gas, exacerbating climate change.

    [2] Water Intensity:

    • Cotton cultivation, vital for clothing production, consumes vast amounts of water, with estimates suggesting up to 20,000 liters required for a pair of jeans and a t-shirt.
    • Predictions indicate potential water crises by 2030 due to escalating water consumption in clothing production.

    [3] Water Pollution:

    • Chemical dyeing, essential for vibrant textiles, ranks as the second-largest polluter of clean water globally, introducing harmful substances into waterways.
    • Cotton cultivation’s heavy reliance on chemicals poses health risks and environmental degradation.

    [4] Plastics and Microfibers:

    • Polyester clothing sheds microfibers during washing, contaminating oceans and endangering marine life, with significant quantities entering waterways annually.
    • Non-biodegradable microfibers pose risks to human health and ecosystems, persisting in the environment indefinitely.

    [5] Landfill Waste:

    • The fashion industry contributes substantially to landfill waste, with discarded clothing doubling over the past two decades due to fast fashion trends.
    • Limited textile recycling exacerbates the landfill problem, with less than 1% of clothing material being reused.

    [6] Inability to Recycle:

    • Complex fabric blends and non-biodegradable materials like polyester and nylon present challenges to recycling technologies, hindering effective reuse.
    • China’s ban on recycled textile imports exacerbates recycling issues, limiting disposal options.

    [7] Economic and Ethical Considerations:

    • Economic incentives often prioritize short-term profits over sustainability, perpetuating greenwashing tactics and undermining genuine recycling efforts.
    • Unethical labor practices compound sustainability challenges, highlighting systemic issues in the fashion industry’s supply chain.

    Methods for Recycling

    • Mechanical recycling: It breaks down textiles into fibers without altering their chemical composition, suitable for natural fibers like cotton.
    • Chemical recycling: It breaks down textiles into basic chemical components, ideal for synthetic fibers like polyester.
    • Steps involved: Both methods involve sorting, shredding, cleaning, processing, and quality control to produce new fabrics or products, reducing waste in the fashion industry.

    Moving Towards True Sustainability

    • Research and Development: Invest in innovative recycling technologies capable of processing complex fabric blends.
    • Transparency and Standards: Implement transparent supply chains and rigorous recycling standards to ensure accountability.
    • Consumer Education: Educate consumers about the true environmental and ethical impact of their clothing choices.
    • Regulation and Accountability: Enforce regulations and industry standards to hold fashion brands accountable for sustainability commitments.
    • Circular Economy Promotion: Embrace circular economy principles, such as extended producer responsibility and product lifecycle management, to minimize waste and resource consumption.

    Conclusion

    • While recycling initiatives in the fashion industry offer some benefits, they fall short of addressing the sector’s overarching environmental and ethical challenges.
    • Achieving true sustainability demands systemic changes, including technological innovation, transparent practices, consumer awareness, regulatory enforcement, and circular economy promotion.
    • By embracing these principles, the fashion industry can pave the way towards a genuinely sustainable and equitable future.
  • India set to transition to Hyperlocal Extreme Weather Forecasting

    India set to transition to Hyperlocal Extreme Weather Forecasting

    Introduction

    • Weather forecasting is vital for disaster management and decision-making in India, where extreme weather events like rain, cyclones, heatwaves, and droughts pose significant challenges.
    • The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) specializes in predicting weather patterns using sophisticated observation, modelling, and interpretation techniques.

    About the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD)

    Details
    About
    • National Meteorological Service of India;
    • Principal government agency for meteorology and allied subjects
    Ministry Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India
    Objectives
    1. Provide meteorological observations and forecasts
    2. Warn against severe weather phenomena
    3. Provide meteorological statistics
    4. Conduct and promote research in meteorology
    Evolution
    • Established in 1875 after devastating cyclones;
    • Started with just one individual
    Advancements
    • Significant progress in understanding monsoons;
    • Enhanced cyclone forecasting post-1999 Odisha super cyclone
    Diversified Roles
    • Expanded services beyond weather forecasting;
    • Provides specialized services for various sectors
    Global Recognition
    • Recognized as Regional Climate Centre for South Asia;
    • Contributes to UN’s ‘Early Warning for All’ programme
    Major Initiatives
    1. National Monsoon Mission (NMM)
    2. Mausam App
    3. Doppler Weather Radars

    Challenges in Weather Forecasting

    • Variability in Tropical Regions: Tropical countries like India face inherently higher weather variability.
    • Hurdles: Despite advancements, IMD forecasts still encounter inaccuracies, particularly during winter and summer monsoons.
    • Insufficient Ground Stations: The limited number of ground stations hinders accurate monitoring, with only around 800 automatic weather stations (AWS) and 37 doppler weather radars (DWR) against the required thousands.

    Transition to Modern Technologies

    • Prediction Software: Current forecasting software relies on global forecasting and weather research models, which are not the most modern.
    • Emerging Technologies: Start-ups are adopting artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) for predictions, necessitating an integrated data system to fill existing gaps.

    Initiatives for Improvement

    • WINDS Program: The Weather Information Network and Data System (WINDS) aim to install over 200,000 ground stations (AWS and ARG) to enhance weather data utilization and promote wider applications in agriculture and other sectors.
    • Air Quality Monitoring: Make in India initiatives facilitate the production of low-cost, reliable sensor-based air quality monitoring systems, aiding in quick installations, particularly in urban areas.

    Addressing Air Pollution Challenges

    • Fog and Air Pollution: Dense fog exacerbates air pollution issues, trapping pollutants and posing health risks. Initiatives to manufacture affordable air quality sensors and establish nationwide networks are underway.
    • Role of AI/ML: Integrated AI/ML-based models leveraging data from new sensors can improve fog prediction and aid in timely decision-making regarding transportation and health impacts.

    Towards a Comprehensive Infrastructure

    • Advancements: India is on track to establish a robust air quality and weather information network.
    • Integration and Collaboration: Seamless data sharing and system integration among stakeholders are crucial for achieving this national infrastructure.
    • Potential Impact: A unified information gateway will play a vital role in addressing climate and environmental challenges.

    Conclusion

    • India’s strides in weather forecasting and air quality monitoring underscore its commitment to enhancing disaster preparedness and environmental sustainability.
    • With concerted efforts and technological advancements, India is poised to establish a world-class infrastructure crucial for tackling climate-related issues.

  • Renewable power, when it isn’t sunny or windy

    India pledges new climate crisis goal: Net zero by 2070 | Latest News India - Hindustan Times

     

    Central Idea:

    India aims to achieve its goal of becoming greenhouse gas (GHG) neutral by 2070 through the addition of renewable energy (RE) capacity by 2030. However, to address the challenges of intermittency and peak demand, there is a need for robust storage capacities, deeper power exchanges, and innovative bidding processes.

     

    Key Highlights:

    • India targets RE capacity by 2030 to achieve GHG neutrality by 2070.
    • The country has made significant progress with solar and wind energy added.
    • Long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs) with state discoms have facilitated RE growth.
    • Favorable policies and reduction in capital costs have spurred competition and foreign investment.
    • Peak power deficits are growing, necessitating innovative solutions to match demand patterns.
    • Bids for renewable projects now require hourly demand matching, akin to traditional power sources.
    • Storage solutions, such as pumped hydro and battery storage, are crucial for grid stability.
    • Excess power generated can be sold to commercial consumers or on power exchanges.

     

    Key Challenges:

    • Meeting peak demand and demand patterns poses a challenge for intermittent renewable sources.
    • Reluctance of discoms to accept must-run renewable energy hampers adoption.
    • Capital costs of storage solutions, like battery storage, remain relatively high.
    • Lack of vibrant power exchange markets limits opportunities for excess power sales.
    • High merchant sales may impact project bankability, requiring guaranteed floor prices.

     

    Main Terms:

    • GHG Neutrality: Achieving a balance between emitted greenhouse gases and those removed from the atmosphere.
    • Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs): Contracts between electricity generators and buyers, often discoms, for the sale of electricity.
    • Renewable Purchase Obligations: Mandates requiring power utilities to purchase a certain percentage of their electricity from renewable sources.
    • Firm and Dispatchable Renewable Energy (FDRE): Renewable energy sources capable of meeting demand fluctuations, akin to traditional power sources.
    • Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE): The average cost of generating electricity from a particular source over its lifetime.

     

    Important Phrases:

    • Must-Run Status: Requirement for uninterrupted operation of renewable energy projects, except for safety reasons.
    • Intermittencies: Variations in energy production from renewable sources due to weather conditions.
    • Peak Deficits: Shortages in electricity supply during periods of highest demand.
    • Round-the-Clock Demand: Consistent electricity supply matching consumer demand throughout the day.
    • Merchant Sales: Selling excess electricity generated beyond contractual obligations on the open market.

     

    Useful Statements:

    • “Storage capacities are central to maintaining grid stability as we expand renewable energy capacities.”
    • “Innovative bidding processes now require renewable generators to match demand patterns akin to traditional power sources.”
    • “Reluctance of discoms to accept must-run renewable energy hampers India’s renewable energy goals.”

     

    Facts and Data:

    • India aims to add renewable energy capacity by 2030.
    • Peak demand is expected to grow in the coming years.
    • India’s power exchanges have witnessed increased trading activity but still lag behind developed economies.
    • Battery storage costs are currently estimated, compared to for pumped hydro.

     

    Critical Analysis:

    The article underscores India’s ambitious renewable energy targets and the challenges associated with intermittency and peak demand. It highlights the importance of storage solutions and innovative bidding processes in ensuring the viability of renewable energy projects. However, challenges such as the reluctance of discoms and high capital costs of storage solutions need to be addressed to accelerate India’s transition to a greener energy landscape.

     

    Way Forward:

    • Implement policies to incentivize discoms to accept must-run renewable energy.
    • Invest in research and development to reduce the capital costs of storage solutions.
    • Enhance power exchange markets to facilitate the sale of excess renewable energy.
    • Provide guaranteed floor prices for excess power sales to improve project bankability.
    • Continue to innovate bidding processes to better match renewable energy supply with demand patterns.

  • Equity concerns in banning fossil fuel extraction

    Fossil Fuels are Dead, Long Live Fossil Fuels – Energy Institute Blog

    Central Idea:

    The inadequate response from governments and corporations to address climate change is fueling a rise in climate change litigation and a push for phasing out fossil fuel subsidies and extraction. This momentum is underscored by proposals like a coal elimination treaty by 2030 due to the significant gap between planned fossil fuel production and Paris Agreement goals. However, challenges exist in aligning these proposals with existing climate change principles, particularly regarding equitable transitions for heavily dependent fossil fuel economies like India.

    Key Highlights:

    • Rise in climate change litigation due to insufficient action from governments and corporations.
    • Growing momentum to phase out fossil fuel subsidies and extraction, exemplified by proposals such as a coal elimination treaty by 2030.
    • Challenges in aligning proposals with existing climate change principles like Common but Differentiated Responsibilities.
    • Heavily dependent fossil fuel economies, such as India, face difficulties transitioning due to economic reliance on fossil fuels.

    Key Challenges:

    • Balancing the need for transitioning away from fossil fuels with the economic dependence of certain countries on fossil fuel revenues.
    • Ensuring equitable transitions for heavily dependent fossil fuel economies.
    • Aligning proposals for phasing out fossil fuels with existing climate change principles like Common but Differentiated Responsibilities.
    • Addressing the discrepancy between planned fossil fuel production and Paris Agreement goals.

    Key Terms/Phrases:

    • Climate change litigation
    • Fossil fuel subsidies
    • Coal elimination treaty
    • Production Gap Report
    • Common but Differentiated Responsibilities
    • Nationally Determined Contributions
    • Equitable transitions
    • Heavily dependent fossil fuel economies

    Case Studies/Best Practices:

    • India’s reliance on fossil fuels despite progress in renewable energy.
    • The transition strategy of countries like Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom with more diversified economies.
    • COP26 and COP28 decisions regarding phasing out coal and transitioning away from fossil fuels.

    Key Quotes/Anecdotes/Statements:

    • “The inadequate response from governments and corporations in dealing with the issue of climate change is leading to… dramatic rise in climate change litigation.”
    • “Those countries that are heavily dependent on revenues and employment in the fossil fuel sector are likely to experience serious difficulties in transitioning away from fossil fuel.”
    • “India’s subsidies on kerosene oil have come under scrutiny in the West as it is found to be inconsistent with Article 2(1)(c) of the Paris Agreement and is also considered as inefficient subsidies.”

    Key Examples/References/Facts/Data:

    • The Production Gap Report indicating a significant gap between planned fossil fuel production and Paris Agreement goals.
    • India’s reliance on fossil fuels dominating its power sector despite progress in renewable energy.
    • COP26 and COP28 decisions regarding phasing out coal and transitioning away from fossil fuels.

    Critical Analysis:

    The article highlights the urgent need for action on climate change and the challenges associated with transitioning away from fossil fuels. It underscores the discrepancy between proposed fossil fuel production and climate goals, as well as the economic dependence of certain countries on fossil fuel revenues. However, it also acknowledges the need for equitable transitions and the complexities of aligning proposals with existing climate change principles.

    Way Forward:

    • Implementing equitable transition strategies for heavily dependent fossil fuel economies.
    • Strengthening international cooperation and commitments to phase out fossil fuel subsidies and extraction.
    • Addressing discrepancies between proposed fossil fuel production and climate goals.
    • Integrating principles of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities into transition strategies.
    • Providing support and creating economic opportunities for those affected by the transition away from fossil fuels.

  • Alarm Bells for Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) Region

    Hindu Kush Himalaya

    Introduction

    • The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) called for ‘bold action’ and ‘urgent finance’ to prevent collapse of Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH).

    About Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH)

    Description
    Geographic Location South Asia, spanning Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan.
    Area Approximately 3,500,000 square kilometers
    “Water Tower of Asia” At least 12 rivers fan out in every direction across the Asian continent from it, including:

    – Syr Darya and Amu Darya towards the now-dead Aral Sea

    – Tarim toward the Taklamakan

    – Indus, Ganga, and Brahmaputra towards the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal

    – Yellow river towards the Gulf of Bohai

    – Yangtze towards the East China Sea

    – Mekong towards the South China Sea

    – Chindwin, Salween, and Irrawaddy towards the Andaman Sea
    Glaciers Home to thousands of glaciers, including Mount Everest and K2.

    A Region on the Brink

    • Biodiversity Hotspot: The HKH region, characterized by its remarkable biodiversity, is described as a ‘biosphere on the brink’ by experts.
    • Scope of Crisis: The speed and scale of habitat and nature loss in the HKH region are deemed ‘catastrophic,’ and urgent action is required.

    Alarming Statistics

    • Biodiversity Richness: The HKH region boasts four of the world’s 36 global biodiversity hotspots, 575 Protected Areas, and 335 important bird areas.
    • Biodiversity Loss: Despite conservation efforts, the region has witnessed the loss of 70% of its original biodiversity over the last century.
    • Human Dependence: 85% of mountain communities in the HKH region rely on this biodiversity for food, water, flood control, and cultural identity.
    • Population Pressure: With 241 million people residing in the HKH region, 31% face food insecurity, and half experience various forms of malnutrition.

    Human Impact

    • Threat to Humanity: The declining nature in the HKH region now endangers not only animal and plant life but also human societies.
    • Water Tower of Asia: This region, known as the ‘Water Tower of Asia,’ supplies essential ecosystem services, including clean water for one-third of the global population.

  • Ammonia Emission Reductions in Agriculture

    ammonia

    Introduction

    • Researchers have harnessed machine learning to provide precise estimates of ammonia emissions stemming from rice, wheat, and maize crops.
    • Their dataset allows for a crop-specific assessment of emission reduction potential, suggesting that effective fertilizer management in these crops could decrease atmospheric ammonia emissions from agriculture by up to 38%.

    Ammonia Emissions in Agriculture

    Ammonia (NH3) emissions primarily originate from agricultural activities, particularly livestock farming and the application of synthetic and organic fertilizers.

    1. Livestock Farming: Livestock, such as cattle, poultry, and swine, produce ammonia through the breakdown of urea in their urine and faeces. Confined animal feeding operations (CAFOs) are major contributors to ammonia emissions.
    2. Fertilizer Application: Ammonia is released when synthetic fertilizers containing ammonium-based compounds (e.g., ammonium nitrate) are applied to crops. Manure from livestock can also be used as organic fertilizer, contributing to ammonia emissions.

    Why it matters?

    • Environmental Impact: Ammonia emissions can lead to air pollution, especially in areas with intensive agriculture. It can react with other pollutants to form fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone, which has adverse effects on human health and the environment.
    • Acid Deposition: Ammonia can undergo atmospheric transformation and contribute to acid rain, which can harm aquatic ecosystems, forests, and infrastructure.
    • Nutrient Loss: Ammonia emissions represent a loss of valuable nitrogen nutrients from agricultural systems. This can reduce the efficiency of fertilizer use and contribute to nitrogen pollution in water bodies.

    Significance of Ammonia Emissions

    • Environmental Impact: Atmospheric ammonia is a significant environmental pollutant, affecting ecosystems and human health globally.
    • Crop-Related Emissions: A substantial portion of anthropogenic ammonia emissions, 51-60%, originates from crop cultivation. Rice, wheat, and maize are responsible for approximately half of these emissions.

    Machine Learning-Based Modeling

    • Researchers’ Approach: The study employed machine learning to model ammonia emissions from rice, wheat, and maize farming worldwide. This modelling considered various factors such as climate, soil characteristics, crop types, irrigation, tillage practices, and fertilization methods.
    • Dataset Development: To train the model, researchers curated a dataset comprising ammonia emissions data from over 2,700 observations, gathered through a systematic review of published literature.
    • Global Emission Estimate: The model’s estimates revealed that global ammonia emissions reached 4.3 teragrams (4.3 billion kilograms) in 2018.

    Emission Reduction Potential

    • Optimizing Fertilizer Management: By spatially optimizing fertilizer management according to the model’s guidance, ammonia emissions from the three crops could potentially be reduced by 38%.
    • Strategies: The optimized strategy involves deeper placement of enhanced-efficiency fertilizers into the soil using conventional tillage practices during the growing season.

    Crop-Specific Contributions

    • Reduction Potential: Under the proposed fertilizer management scenario, rice crops could contribute to 47% of the total reduction potential. Maize and wheat could contribute 27% and 26%, respectively.
    • Emission Projections: Without management strategies, ammonia emissions could increase by 4.6% to 15.8% by 2100, depending on future greenhouse gas emissions levels.

    Conclusion

    • This study showcases how machine learning can provide valuable insights into ammonia emissions from crop cultivation.
    • By optimizing fertilizer management practices, substantial reductions in ammonia emissions from rice, wheat, and maize crops can be achieved, contributing to environmental sustainability.