Table of contents

Global warming and climate change are clear signs of human actions driven by unchecked greed and unsustainable development. This blog discusses practical ways to halt this harmful trend and protect life on Earth. Using concepts from the GS4 syllabus on ethics and the environment, we explore steps to restore balance between society and nature. The focus is on sustainable practices, responsible development, and ethical choices that help ensure a safer future for all living beings on the planet.

Q2. (b) Global warming and climate change are the outcomes of human greed in the name of development, indicating the direction in which extinction of organisms including human beings is heading towards loss of life on Earth. How do you put an end to this to protect life and bring equilibrium between the society and the environment ?

Model Answer:

Introduction

The industrial revolution, driven by human greed for consumption, has led to a significant increase in greenhouse gas emissions, such as carbon dioxide and methane. The concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere has increased by about 49% since the pre-industrial era indicating the effect of human activities on earth. 

Body

Measures to bring equilibrium between society and the environment
  • Transition to Renewable Energy: Phasing out fossil fuels and investing in renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydro are key to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and ensuring clean, sustainable energy.
  • Energy Efficiency: Promoting energy efficiency in industries and households, along with investing in advanced energy-saving technologies, can significantly reduce consumption and emissions.

  • Forest Conservation and Reforestation:
    Preserving forests and promoting sustainable forestry can absorb carbon dioxide and balance economic needs with environmental conservation.
  • Sustainable Agriculture and Land Use: Reducing deforestation, promoting sustainable land use, integrating agroforestry, and adopting precision agriculture techniques can enhance biodiversity, improve carbon sequestration, and optimize resource use while minimizing environmental impact.
  • International Cooperation: Strengthening global agreements like the Paris Agreement to set ambitious emissions reduction targets and facilitating technology transfer among countries can promote sustainable development and enhance international cooperation.
  • Consumer Awareness and Behavior Change: Educating consumers about climate change and promoting sustainable consumption. For example, The LiFE
    initiative (Lifestyle for Environment)
    launched by the Indian government.

Conclusion



By implementing these measures, we can effectively address global warming and climate change, protect life on Earth, and create a more sustainable and equitable future for generations to come. It requires a collective effort from governments, businesses, and individuals to make significant changes and transition towards a low-carbon economy.

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