Q4.Discuss global warming and mention its effects on the global climate. Explain the control measures to bring down the level of greenhouse gases which cause global warming, in the light of the Kyoto Protocol, 1997.

Global warming is the long-term heating of Earth's climate system observed since the pre-industrial period, primarily due to human activities, mainly fossil fuel burning, which increases heat-trapping greenhouse gas levels.

• Sea-level rise, extreme weather events (heatwaves, floods, droughts).
• Changes in precipitation patterns, ocean acidification, and biodiversity loss.
• Adverse impacts on agriculture and global food security.

• Transition to renewable energy and improved energy efficiency.
• Carbon capture and storage technologies.
• Afforestation, reforestation, and sustainable agricultural practices.

The Kyoto Protocol (1997) set legally binding emission reduction targets for developed countries (Annex I Parties) for six GHGs. Its objective was to stabilize atmospheric GHG concentrations.

• Emission Trading (ET): Allows countries to trade emission units.
• Clean Development Mechanism (CDM): Developed countries invest in emission-reduction projects in developing nations.
• Joint Implementation (JI): Developed countries earn units from projects in other developed nations.

• Significance: Laid groundwork for international climate action and future agreements.
• Limitations: Non-participation of major emitters (e.g., USA), no binding targets for developing countries.

Addressing global warming requires concerted global efforts, technological innovation, and robust policy reforms. India's ambitious climate action plans are crucial in this collective endeavor.