Environmental Sciences Past Paper 2024
Q. No. 2. What is the mechanism of ozone depletion? What chemicals in the upper atmosphere are responsible for ozone layer depletion? What are the impacts of ozone layer depletion? (20)
Q. No. 3. What is the difference between an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and an Initial Environmental Examination (IEE)? List and explain the entire EIA process. Where in the project cycle should an EIA be initiated? (20)
Q. No. 4. One of the methods to control the pollution problem is the introduction of regulatory mechanisms, incentives, and fines. In your opinion how can we control the smog problem by using one of those methods? How would you implement a plan at a city level to mitigate the smog problem? (20)
Q. No. 5. What is the greenhouse effect? What is the mechanism of the greenhouse effect? Which major air pollutants are responsible for causing global warming? Why is Pakistan considered more vulnerable to the effects of climate change when its contribution is less than 1% of total global GHG emissions? (20)
Q. No. 6. Discuss important components of Pakistan’s National Climate Change Policy. What is the impact of the 18th Amendment on Climate change Policy formulation in Pakistan? How Pakistan can benefit from COP28? (20)
Q. No. 7. What is occupational health safety and management? Provide examples of at least five workplaces with possible associated exposure risks. How can such exposure risks be minimized/ controlled?
(20)
Q. No. 8. Write short notes on any two of the following: (10 each)
- United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
- Kyoto Protocol
- Eutrophication and its effects
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Summaries of Questions:
Q. No. 2. What is the mechanism of ozone depletion? What chemicals in the upper atmosphere are responsible for ozone layer depletion? What are the impacts of ozone layer depletion? (20)
Ozone depletion occurs when certain chemicals, such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons, and other chlorine and bromine-containing substances, break down ozone molecules in the stratosphere. These chemicals release chlorine and bromine atoms, which catalytically destroy ozone molecules. The depletion of the ozone layer increases UV radiation reaching the Earth’s surface, leading to higher rates of skin cancer, cataracts, and environmental damage to marine life and ecosystems.
Q. No. 3. What is the difference between an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and an Initial Environmental Examination (IEE)? List and explain the entire EIA process. Where in the project cycle should an EIA be initiated? (20)
An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a detailed study that evaluates the potential environmental effects of a project, while an Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) is a preliminary review to determine whether an EIA is required. The EIA process includes: 1) Screening to determine whether an EIA is needed, 2) Scoping to identify key issues, 3) Baseline data collection, 4) Impact prediction and evaluation, 5) Mitigation measures, 6) Public consultation, and 7) Decision-making. An EIA should be initiated early in the project cycle, ideally during the planning phase.
Q. No. 4. One of the methods to control the pollution problem is the introduction of regulatory mechanisms, incentives, and fines. In your opinion how can we control the smog problem by using one of those methods? How would you implement a plan at a city level to mitigate the smog problem? (20)
To control smog, regulatory mechanisms like stricter vehicle emission standards and industrial regulations can be enforced. Additionally, incentives such as tax breaks for businesses using cleaner technologies and fines for violators can help reduce smog. At the city level, I would implement a plan involving stricter air quality monitoring, promotion of public transport, incentives for green technologies, public awareness campaigns, and imposing penalties on industries and vehicles that exceed pollution limits.
Q. No. 5. What is the greenhouse effect? What is the mechanism of the greenhouse effect? Which major air pollutants are responsible for causing global warming? Why is Pakistan considered more vulnerable to the effects of climate change when its contribution is less than 1% of total global GHG emissions? (20)
The greenhouse effect is a natural process where greenhouse gases trap heat in the Earth’s atmosphere, maintaining temperatures that support life. However, human activities have increased these gases, enhancing the effect. Major pollutants contributing to global warming include carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O). Pakistan is vulnerable to climate change impacts, such as floods and droughts, because it is heavily dependent on climate-sensitive sectors like agriculture and water resources, despite contributing minimally to global emissions.
Q. No. 6. Discuss important components of Pakistan’s National Climate Change Policy. What is the impact of the 18th Amendment on Climate Change Policy formulation in Pakistan? How Pakistan can benefit from COP28? (20)
Pakistan’s National Climate Change Policy focuses on mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, adapting to climate impacts, and enhancing resilience. Key components include improving energy efficiency, protecting water resources, and promoting sustainable agriculture. The 18th Amendment devolved certain powers to provincial governments, impacting climate change policy formulation by requiring more localized efforts. Pakistan can benefit from COP28 by securing international climate finance, sharing its experiences, and collaborating on global solutions to climate change.
Q. No. 7. What is occupational health safety and management? Provide examples of at least five workplaces with possible associated exposure risks. How can such exposure risks be minimized/controlled? (20)
Occupational health safety and management involve ensuring the safety and well-being of workers by identifying hazards and controlling risks. Examples of workplaces and associated risks include: 1) Construction sites (falling hazards), 2) Factories (exposure to chemicals), 3) Hospitals (biological hazards), 4) Offices (ergonomic risks), and 5) Agricultural fields (pesticide exposure). Risks can be minimized through safety training, proper equipment, regular inspections, and implementing safety protocols like protective gear and ventilation systems.
Q. No. 8. Write short notes on any two of the following:
- United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC): The UNFCCC is an international treaty that aims to address global climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting climate resilience. It was adopted in 1992 and provides a framework for future agreements, such as the Paris Agreement.
- Kyoto Protocol: The Kyoto Protocol, adopted in 1997, was a treaty under the UNFCCC that set legally binding targets for developed countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It was later replaced by the Paris Agreement but was an important step in international climate policy.
- Eutrophication and its effects: Eutrophication is the excessive enrichment of water bodies with nutrients, often from agricultural runoff, leading to overgrowth of algae. This can deplete oxygen levels, harm aquatic life, and degrade water quality, impacting biodiversity and fisheries.