Basics of GHGs and its Component Gases

Greenhouse gases (GHGs) are gases in the Earth’s atmosphere that trap heat and contribute to the greenhouse effect, leading to climate change. The main GHGs include carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and fluorinated gases. CO2 is the most prevalent greenhouse gas, accounting for approximately 76% of total GHG emissions.

Latest Data of GHG Emissions by Sector

When considering GHG emissions by sector, it is helpful to visualize the breakdown using a flow chart. Assuming GHG emissions as 100%, CO2 accounts for approximately 75% of total emissions, followed by CH4 (19%) and N2O (6%). Within CO2 emissions, around 70-75% are from human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation, while the remaining 25-30% come from natural sources like volcanic eruptions and respiration by plants and animals.

Drilling down further, the main sectors contributing to man-made CO2 emissions include electricity generation, transportation, industrial processes, and land use changes. These sectors play a significant role in shaping the overall emissions landscape.

UN Goals to Limit CO2 Emissions

The United Nations Climate Change is an international entity to support the global climate action by 198 parties (~ countries). The annual Conference of the Parties (COP) enable the member states to discuss, agree and pledge for climate action. The notable ones are 1997 Kyoto Protocol and 2015 Paris Agreement, of which the latter meeting has set ambitious goals to limit CO2 emissions and combat climate change. The primary target is to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, aiming for 1.5 degrees Celsius. This requires reducing CO2 emissions by transitioning to cleaner energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and implementing sustainable land use practices.

Role of Industrial Revolution

Examining the time series of CO2 emissions reveals a stark increase over the past century, particularly during the industrial revolutions. The burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes have contributed to a significant rise in CO2 emissions. This increase has had a profound impact on the Earth’s climate system, leading to rising temperatures (check the temporal variation) and other climate-related changes. It is evident from rate when compared to glacial and inter-glacial cycles why we record the warmest years in the recent past. 10 warmest years in 143 years period are since 2010, with 2014-22 taking 9 out of 10 places, is definitely a warning call for the impending disaster if no action is taken.

Arguments of Developed and Developing Countries in Reducing Emissions

The argument surrounding emissions reduction often differs between developed and developing countries. Developed countries, being responsible for historically higher emissions, acknowledge their role in climate change and strive to reduce their carbon footprint, yet shall be missing targets. They emphasize the need for technology transfer and financial support to aid developing countries in their emission reduction efforts.

Developing countries, on the other hand, argue that they should be allowed to prioritize economic growth and poverty eradication before committing to significant emission reductions. However, many developing nations such as India have also made pledges to reduce emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.

Important countries like the United States, the European Union, China, India, and others have made Nationally Determined Commitments (NDCs) to address climate change. These countries have set targets for emissions reduction and have implemented various policies and initiatives to achieve these goals.

In summary, greenhouse gases play a crucial role in climate change, with CO2 being the primary contributor. Understanding the sources and sectors responsible for GHG emissions is essential for effective mitigation strategies. The United Nations has set goals to limit CO2 emissions and combat climate change, while countries worldwide are taking steps to reduce their carbon footprints.

While the challenges are significant, there is hope for positive change. Continued efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources, improve energy efficiency, and promote sustainable practices can lead to a more sustainable and resilient future for our planet.