UPSC Prelims 2005 Q6: Environment & Ecology – International Environmental Treaties & Summits
Consider the following statements :
1. Kyoto Protocol came into force in the year 2005
2. Kyoto Protocol deals primarily with the depletion of the Ozone layer.
3. Methane as a greenhouse gas is more harmful than carbon dioxide
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 and 2
- (b) 1 and 3
- (c) 1 only
- (d) 3 only
Answer: (b) 1 and 3
Explanation
Kyoto Protocol and greenhouse gases
| Statement | Verdict |
|---|---|
| 1. Came into force in 2005 | True — in force from 16 February 2005 |
| 2. Deals mainly with ozone depletion | False: it targets greenhouse gas emissions; ozone is the Montreal Protocol |
| 3. Methane is more harmful than CO2 | True — its global warming potential is many times higher per molecule |
Statements 1 and 3 are correct. The Kyoto Protocol limits greenhouse gas emissions, not ozone-depleting substances.
Answer: (b) 1 and 3.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Statement 2 confuses Kyoto with the Montreal Protocol.
- (b) CORRECT. Statements 1 and 3 hold.
- (c) Incorrect. Statement 3 about methane is also correct.
- (d) Incorrect. Statement 1 about 2005 is also correct.
Key point
Kyoto 1997, in force 2005, on greenhouse gases; Montreal 1987 on ozone.
Remember
Kyoto Protocol (in force 2005) targets greenhouse gases; methane is more potent than CO2.
Common mistakes
- Mixing Kyoto with the Montreal Protocol.
- Dating the Kyoto treaty's entry into force to 1997, when it was only adopted.
- Believing CO2 is the most potent per molecule; methane is far more potent.
Exam tip
Kyoto = climate (greenhouse gases); Montreal = ozone.
Sources
- UNFCCC — Kyoto Protocol
- United Nations Environment Programme — The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer (1987)