A: Super pollutants are short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) that have a much stronger warming effect on the planet than carbon dioxide, even though they remain in the atmosphere for a shorter time. Key examples include:
●Methane: A potent greenhouse gas emitted from agriculture, waste, and fossil fuel production.
●Black Carbon: Soot particles from burning biomass and fossil fuels.
●Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs): Industrial chemicals used in refrigeration and air conditioning.
Q: Why are super pollutants a major concern?
A: They have several harmful effects:
●Accelerated Climate Change: SLCPs trap heat significantly faster than CO2, contributing to rapid global warming.
●Air Pollution & Health Risks: They worsen air quality, leading to respiratory diseases, asthma, and millions of premature deaths annually.
Q: What actions are being taken to address super pollutants?
A: Several initiatives are underway:
●Kigali Amendment: A global agreement to phase down HFCs.
●Global Methane Pledge: An international effort to reduce methane emissions by 30% by 2030.
●Clean Air Coalition: A partnership of governments, NGOs, and others addressing air pollution and SLCPs.
Q: What further actions are needed?
A: Experts at the conference and in the provided article emphasize:
●NDCs: Including super pollutants in countries' Nationally Determined Contributions (climate action plans).
●Methane Roadmaps: Developing and rapidly implementing plans to cut methane emissions.
●Increased Funding: Significantly more financing for action on super pollutants, especially for less prominent ones like nitrous oxide and black carbon.
SRIRAM's
Share:
Get a call back
Fill the below form to get free counselling for UPSC Civil Services exam preparation
