Daily Current Affairs : 6-December-2023
Recently, the Methane Alert and Response System (MARS) has emerged as a pivotal tool in the global effort to address methane emissions, notifying governments about 127 plumes across four continents during its pilot stage. This system, introduced at COP 27 in November 2022, has significant relevance to GS III: Environment and Ecology.
Methane Alert and Response System (MARS):
MARS is a groundbreaking program aimed at data-driven actions to reduce methane emissions. Commencing its preliminary phase in January 2023, it underwent refinement in collaboration with the UNEP’s International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO) before publicly releasing data.
Key Elements of MARS:
- Utilizes satellite technology to identify major methane emission sources globally.
- Encourages nations and corporations to adopt methane mitigation measures aligned with the Paris Agreement and Global Methane Pledge.
- Collaborates with entities such as the Climate and Clean Air Coalition and the International Energy Agency.
- Integrates four essential elements: pinpointing emission sources, alerting stakeholders, soliciting actions, and monitoring efficacy.
International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO):
Introduced at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in 2021, IMEO focuses primarily on methane emissions from the fossil fuel industry.
Integration of Data:
- Gathers methane data from scientific studies, satellite observations via MARS, industry reporting under the Oil and Gas Methane Partnership 2.0 (OGMP 2.0), and national emissions inventories.
- OGMP 2.0, UNEP’s leading program, forms alliances with corporations to improve precision and transparency of methane emission data within the oil and gas industry.
Important Points:
MARS (Methane Alert and Response System):
- Groundbreaking program for data-driven actions to reduce methane emissions.
- Commenced preliminary phase in January 2023, refined in collaboration with IMEO.
- Uses satellite technology to identify global methane emission sources.
- Encourages adoption of methane mitigation measures aligned with Paris Agreement and Global Methane Pledge.
- Collaborates with Climate and Clean Air Coalition, International Energy Agency, and other entities.
- Four essential elements: pinpointing sources, alerting stakeholders, soliciting actions, and monitoring efficacy.
IMEO (International Methane Emissions Observatory):
- Introduced at G20 Leaders’ Summit in 2021, focuses on methane emissions from fossil fuel industry.
- Gathers methane data from scientific studies, MARS satellite observations, OGMP 2.0 industry reporting, and national inventories.
- OGMP 2.0 forms alliances with corporations to enhance precision and transparency of methane emission data within the oil and gas industry.
Collaborative Efforts:
- MARS and IMEO collaboration signifies a crucial step towards transparency, accountability, and effective methane emission mitigation.
- Offers hope for achieving global climate goals through joint efforts of nations and corporations.
Why In News
Recently, the Methane Alert and Response System (MARS) notified governments of 127 plumes spanning four continents and identified 1,500 plumes in its pilot stage, highlighting the urgency for global collaboration in addressing methane emissions and mitigating their impact on climate change.
MCQs about MARS and IMEO
-
What is the primary purpose of the Methane Alert and Response System (MARS)?
A. Monitoring air quality worldwide
B. Identifying major methane emission sources
C. Promoting renewable energy initiatives
D. Enhancing global water management
-
When was the preliminary phase of MARS initiated?
A. November 2022
B. January 2023
C. October 2021
D. December 2022
-
What does IMEO primarily focus on in terms of methane emissions?
A. Agriculture
B. Transportation
C. Fossil fuel industry
D. Industrial manufacturing
Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions
