. A number of international treaties and protocols have addressed the effects of human activities on the environment.
a. Explain the goals of the Antarctic Treaty System. Why was the treaty necessary? (1 point)
b. Explain the goal of the Montreal Protocol. Has it been successful? (1 point)
c. Explain the goals of the Kyoto Protocol. (1 point)
d. Explain the goals of the Paris Agreement. (1 point)
a. The Antarctic Treaty System was established to preserve Antarctica as a natural reserve and to ensure that scientific research and cooperation can continue in the region. The treaty was necessary to prevent militarization and exploitation of Antarctica for economic gain.
b. The goal of the Montreal Protocol is to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances. The protocol has been largely successful in achieving its goal, as the ozone layer has shown signs of recovery since its implementation.
c. The goals of the Kyoto Protocol are to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to address climate change by setting binding emission reduction targets for developed countries. The protocol also includes mechanisms for countries to collaborate on reducing emissions and adapting to the impacts of climate change.
d. The goals of the Paris Agreement are to limit global temperature rise to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, and to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius. The agreement also aims to enhance climate change adaptation and resilience, and to mobilize financial resources to support developing countries in their climate action efforts.