UPSC Prelims 2014 Q6: Environment & Ecology – International Environmental Treaties & Summits
With reference to 'Global Environment Facility',
which of the following statements is/are correct?
- (a) It serves as financial mechanism for 'Convention on Biological Diversity' and 'United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change'
- (b) It undertakes scientific research on environmental issues at global level
- (c) It is an agency under OECD to facilitate the transfer of technology and funds to underdeveloped countries with specific aim to protect their environment
- (d) Both (a) and (b)
Answer: (a) It serves as financial mechanism for 'Convention on Biological Diversity' and 'United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change'
Explanation
Global Environment Facility (GEF)
Set up in 1991, on the eve of the Rio Earth Summit.
Secretariat: Washington DC; the World Bank is its trustee.
| Convention | GEF is its financial mechanism? |
|---|---|
| Convention on Biological Diversity | Yes |
| UN Framework Convention on Climate Change | Yes |
| UN Convention to Combat Desertification | Yes |
| Stockholm Convention on persistent organic pollutants | Yes |
| Minamata Convention on mercury | Yes |
The options checked:
| Option | Verdict |
|---|---|
| (a) Financial mechanism for the biodiversity and climate conventions | Correct |
| (b) Undertakes scientific research on environmental issues | Incorrect; it funds projects, it does not do research |
| (c) An agency under OECD | Incorrect |
| (d) Both (a) and (b) | Incorrect |
Answer: (a) financial mechanism for CBD and UNFCCC.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) CORRECT. GEF is the financial mechanism for the biodiversity and climate conventions.
- (b) Incorrect. GEF does not itself undertake scientific research.
- (c) Incorrect. It is not an agency under the OECD.
- (d) Incorrect. Only (a) is right; (b) is false.
Key point
GEF (1991): financial mechanism for CBD, UNFCCC, UNCCD, Stockholm and Minamata conventions; World Bank is trustee; gives grants to developing countries.
Remember
GEF = fund for the Rio conventions.
Common mistakes
- Thinking GEF does research; it only finances projects.
- Confusing GEF with the Green Climate Fund.
- Forgetting that GEF serves five conventions, not just two.
Exam tip
'Facility' = fund. It pays; others research and implement.
Sources
- Global Environment Facility — About us and Conventions
- Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change — GEF India