Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Global warming and climate change, evidenced by rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and biodiversity loss, are increasingly recognized as existential threats. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Sixth Assessment Report (2021) unequivocally attributes these changes to human activities, primarily greenhouse gas emissions. While development is essential for human progress, its current trajectory, often driven by unchecked consumption and a disregard for ecological limits, has created a crisis. This question rightly points to the ethical dilemma: can we continue pursuing development at the cost of planetary health and future generations? Addressing this requires a fundamental re-evaluation of our values and priorities.
Understanding the Root Causes
The core issue isn’t development *per se*, but its *nature*. The dominant model prioritizes economic growth measured by GDP, often neglecting environmental costs. This is fueled by:
- Consumerism: A culture of excessive consumption drives demand for resource-intensive products.
- Fossil Fuel Dependence: The continued reliance on fossil fuels for energy production is the largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.
- Deforestation & Land Use Change: Conversion of forests for agriculture and urbanization reduces carbon sinks and disrupts ecosystems.
- Inequitable Resource Distribution: Developed nations, historically responsible for the majority of emissions, often externalize environmental costs onto developing countries.
Mitigation Strategies: A Multi-Pronged Approach
Technological Solutions
Technological advancements are crucial, but not a silver bullet:
- Renewable Energy Transition: Investing in solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal energy sources. India’s National Solar Mission (2010) is a step in this direction.
- Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): Developing technologies to capture CO2 emissions from industrial sources and store them underground.
- Green Technologies: Promoting innovations in sustainable agriculture, transportation (electric vehicles), and manufacturing.
Behavioral Changes & Ethical Considerations
Individual and societal shifts in behavior are equally important:
- Sustainable Consumption: Reducing waste, adopting circular economy principles, and choosing eco-friendly products.
- Dietary Changes: Reducing meat consumption, which has a significant environmental footprint.
- Responsible Travel: Minimizing air travel and opting for sustainable tourism practices.
- Environmental Education: Raising awareness about climate change and promoting environmental stewardship.
Policy Interventions & Governance
Strong policy frameworks are essential to drive systemic change:
- Carbon Pricing: Implementing carbon taxes or cap-and-trade systems to incentivize emission reductions.
- Regulations & Standards: Setting stricter environmental regulations for industries and promoting energy efficiency standards.
- International Cooperation: Strengthening international agreements like the Paris Agreement (2015) and providing financial assistance to developing countries for climate adaptation and mitigation.
- Investment in Green Infrastructure: Funding projects that promote sustainable transportation, renewable energy, and ecosystem restoration.
Restoring Equilibrium: A Paradigm Shift
Ultimately, protecting life and achieving equilibrium requires a shift from a purely anthropocentric worldview to an ecocentric one. This involves recognizing the intrinsic value of nature and prioritizing long-term sustainability over short-term economic gains. The concept of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ – the world is one family – resonates strongly with this need for global cooperation and shared responsibility.
Conclusion
Addressing global warming and climate change is not merely an environmental issue; it’s a moral imperative. A holistic approach integrating technological innovation, behavioral changes, and robust policy interventions is crucial. Moving beyond a purely growth-centric model towards a sustainable and equitable development paradigm is essential to safeguard life on Earth and ensure a habitable future for generations to come. This requires a collective commitment from individuals, governments, and the international community, guided by ethical principles and a deep respect for the planet.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.