Daily Current Affairs : 8-December-2023

In a pivotal moment for environmental responsibility, 63 countries, including the US, Canada, and Kenya, signed the Global Cooling Pledge at COP28. This landmark commitment aims to curtail cooling emissions by a substantial 68% by the year 2050.

Understanding Cooling Emissions: A Growing Concern

Cooling emissions, stemming from refrigerants and energy consumption in appliances like air conditioners and refrigerators, currently contribute to 7% of global greenhouse gas emissions. This concerning figure is anticipated to triple by 2050, posing a significant threat to our planet’s climate stability.

The Culprits: Refrigerants and their Impact
  1. Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs): These refrigerants, commonly used in appliances, play a substantial role in global warming. Notably, HFC-134a possesses a staggering global warming potential 3,400 times that of CO2, underscoring the urgent need for intervention.
Solutions for a Cooler Future
  1. Phasing Out HFCs: A critical step involves the gradual elimination of HFCs, replacing them with climate-friendly alternatives. This proactive measure aims to significantly reduce the environmental impact of cooling systems.
  2. Promoting Climate-Friendly Chemicals: Encouraging the use of environmentally friendly refrigerants is pivotal. Investing in and adopting climate-friendly chemicals can mitigate the adverse effects of cooling emissions on the planet.
  3. Proper Disposal of Refrigerants: Implementing effective disposal methods for refrigerants ensures that these substances do not linger in the environment, exacerbating their detrimental impact. Responsible disposal is crucial for minimizing long-term environmental damage.
  4. Exploring Alternatives to Air Conditioners: Research and innovation should focus on developing methods to cool buildings without heavy reliance on traditional air conditioning systems. This could involve architectural designs, natural ventilation, and other sustainable cooling solutions.
Important Points:
  • Global Cooling Pledge at COP28
    • 63 countries commit to reducing cooling emissions by 68% by 2050.
    • Includes major nations like the US, Canada, and Kenya.
  • Cooling Emissions: A Growing Concern
    • Currently contribute to 7% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
    • Expected to triple by 2050, posing a significant threat to climate stability.
  • Impact of Refrigerants: Culprits in Global Warming
    • Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) identified as major contributors.
    • HFC-134a has a global warming potential 3,400 times that of CO2.
  • Solutions for a Cooler Future
    • Phasing Out HFCs:
      • Gradual elimination to reduce environmental impact.
    • Promoting Climate-Friendly Chemicals:
      • Encouraging adoption of environmentally friendly refrigerants.
    • Proper Disposal of Refrigerants:
      • Implementing effective disposal methods to prevent environmental damage.
    • Exploring Alternatives to Air Conditioners:
      • Research and innovation for sustainable cooling solutions beyond traditional air conditioning.
Why In News

The Global Cooling Pledge, signed by 63 countries, including the US, Canada, and Kenya at COP28, commits to reducing cooling emissions by at least 68% by 2050, exemplifying a united global effort to combat climate change and safeguard the environment for future generations.

MCQs about Global Cooling Pledge

  1. What is the expected increase in cooling emissions by 2050 if no action is taken?
    A. Doubled
    B. Tripled
    C. Halved
    D. Quadrupled
    Correct Answer: B. Tripled
    Explanation: Without intervention, cooling emissions are projected to triple by 2050.
  2. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a solution to address cooling emissions ?
    A. Phasing out HFCs
    B. Promoting climate-friendly chemicals
    C. Increasing the use of HFCs
    D. Exploring alternatives to air conditioners
    Correct Answer: C. Increasing the use of HFCs
    Explanation: The essay recommends phasing out HFCs, not increasing their use, as a solution to mitigate cooling emissions.
  3. Which refrigerant has a global warming potential 3,400 times that of CO2?
    A. Hydrogen
    B. Methane
    C. HFC-134a
    D. Ammonia
    Correct Answer: C. HFC-134a
    Explanation: HFC-134a has a global warming potential 3,400 times that of CO2.
  4. One of the suggested solutions for mitigating the impact of cooling emissions is:
    A. Increasing the use of HFCs
    B. Ignoring the proper disposal of refrigerants
    C. Phasing out HFCs and promoting climate-friendly chemicals
    D. Relying solely on air conditioners for cooling
    Correct Answer: C. Phasing out HFCs and promoting climate-friendly chemicals
    Explanation: The essay recommends phasing out HFCs and promoting climate-friendly chemicals as a solution to mitigate the impact of cooling emissions on the environment.

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