UPSC Prelims PYQ 2005: Kyoto Protocol and greenhouse gases

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 is/are correct?

1. 1 and 2
2. 1 and 3
3. 1 only
4. 3 only

Explanation

Option (b) is correct

• Statement 1 is correct as the Kyoto Protocol came into force in 2005 after Russia’s ratification met the required threshold for its activation. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Kyoto Protocol deals with the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions responsible for climate change, not the depletion of the ozone layer, which is addressed by the Montreal Protocol. Statement 3 is correct in the context of global warming potential, as methane is significantly more potent than carbon dioxide over a shorter time horizon, making it more harmful per unit in terms of heat-trapping capacity.

Answer: (b) 1 and 3