International environmental law MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for International environmental law - Download Free PDF

The correct answer is 'Option 1: (A)-(II), (B)-(III), (C)-(IV), (D)-(I)'

Key Points

• UN Conference on Environment and Development (1992):
  • Also known as the Earth Summit, this conference took place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in 1992.
  • It aimed to address urgent environmental and developmental challenges globally and resulted in significant agreements like Agenda 21, the Rio Declaration, and conventions on biodiversity and climate change.
  • This is correctly matched with the year 1992 in the answer.
• Kyoto Conference on Global Warming (1997):
  • The Kyoto Protocol was adopted at this conference in Kyoto, Japan, in 1997.
  • It set legally binding obligations for developed countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
  • This is correctly matched with the year 1997 in the answer.
• Paris Agreement (2015):
  • The Paris Agreement was adopted at the COP21 in Paris in 2015 and is a landmark global accord to combat climate change.
  • It aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, ideally to 1.5 degrees Celsius, above pre-industrial levels.
  • This is correctly matched with the year 2015 in the answer.
• Montreal Protocol (1987):
  • The Montreal Protocol was agreed upon in 1987 to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production of substances responsible for ozone depletion.
  • It is considered one of the most successful international environmental agreements.
  • This is correctly matched with the year 1987 in the answer.

Additional Information

• Other Options:
  • Option 2 incorrectly matches the Kyoto Conference (1997) with the year 2015 and the Paris Agreement (2015) with 1997.
  • Option 3 incorrectly matches the Montreal Protocol (1987) with 1997 and swaps the years for the Kyoto Conference and Paris Agreement.
  • Option 4 incorrectly matches the UN Conference on Environment and Development (1992) with 1987 and swaps other years incorrectly.
  • These mismatches highlight that only Option 1 provides the correct chronological pairing of events with their respective years.
• Importance of these agreements:
  • Each of these conferences and protocols has played a pivotal role in shaping global environmental policies.
  • They address issues ranging from ozone layer protection to climate change mitigation and sustainable development.
  • Understanding their chronology helps in comprehending the evolution of international environmental efforts.

The correct answer is Option 2.

Key Points

Chronological Arrangement of Conventions:

• These international conventions were adopted in different years to address various environmental and trade issues. Here is the chronological order of their adoption.

1. Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITCS) - 1973:

   • This convention aims to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival.

2. Vienna Convention on the Protection of Ozone Layer - 1985:

   • This convention is designed to protect the ozone layer by reducing the production of substances that deplete it.

3. The Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal - 1989:

   • This convention aims to reduce the movement of hazardous waste between nations, and specifically to prevent transfer of hazardous waste from developed to less developed countries.

4. Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants - 2001:

   • This convention aims to eliminate or restrict the production and use of persistent organic pollutants (POPs).

Conclusion:

• The correct chronological order of the adoption of these conventions is:
  • C. Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITCS) - 1973
  • A. Vienna Convention on the Protection of Ozone Layer - 1985
  • D. The Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal - 1989
  • B. Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants - 2001

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 2: C, A, D, B.

The Convention on Biodiversity was signed at the Rio Earth Summit

Key Points

• Rio Earth Summit:
  • The Rio Earth Summit, also known as the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in 1992.
  • The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) was one of the major agreements opened for signature at this summit.
  • The CBD is a multilateral treaty with three main goals: the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components, and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from genetic resources.
  • This convention is considered a landmark in the field of environmental conservation and sustainable development.

Additional Information

• Paris Climate Conference:
  • The Paris Climate Conference, also known as COP21, was held in 2015 and led to the Paris Agreement, which focuses on climate change mitigation, adaptation, and finance.
  • It did not address the Convention on Biodiversity.
• Stockholm Conference:
  • The Stockholm Conference, also known as the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment, was held in Stockholm, Sweden, in 1972.
  • It focused on environmental issues but did not result in the Convention on Biodiversity.
• Hague Conference:
  • The Hague Conference generally refers to a series of international conferences focusing on international law and the laws of war, not specifically related to the Convention on Biodiversity.
  • It is not associated with environmental treaties like the CBD.

The correct answer is 'New York at the United Nations Headquarters'

Key Points

• Paris Agreement, 2015:
  • The Paris Agreement is an international treaty aimed at combating climate change and its negative impacts.
  • It was adopted by 196 parties at the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP21) in Paris, on December 12, 2015.
  • The agreement entered into force on November 4, 2016.
  • The primary goal is to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, preferably to 1.5 degrees Celsius, compared to pre-industrial levels.

Additional Information

• Incorrect Options Overview:
  • Paris: Although the agreement was adopted in Paris, it was not open for signature there.
  • Geneva: Geneva is a key location for international diplomacy, but it was not the site for the Paris Agreement's signing.
  • London: London is another major international city but had no direct involvement in the Paris Agreement signing process.

The correct answer is '90 days after being adopted by three-fourths of the parties'

Key Points

• Amendments to the UNFCCC Convention:
  • Amendments to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) are modifications or additions to the original treaty aimed at addressing evolving climate issues and enhancing the framework's effectiveness.
  • These amendments are crucial for ensuring that the Convention remains relevant and effective in addressing global climate change challenges.
  • The process for amendments includes proposal, adoption by the Conference of the Parties (COP), and ratification by member states.

Additional Information

• Other Options Explained:
  • Immediately upon adoption: This option is incorrect because amendments require a ratification process, which takes time.
  • Six months after being adopted: This option is incorrect as the specified time frame does not align with the UNFCCC's stipulated process.
  • One year after being adopted: This option is incorrect as it also does not match the UNFCCC's requirements for amendments to enter into force.

 The correct answer is 3) Brundtland Report.

Key Points

• The Brundtland Commission, officially known as the World Commission on Environment & Development (WCED), released "Our Common Future" in 1987, which popularized and defined the term "Sustainable Development."
• The Brundtland Commission was created by the United Nations to suggest measures to protect the human environment and natural resources and prevent deterioration of economic and social development.
• The mission of the Brundtland Commission is to unite countries to pursue sustainable development together.

The Convention on Biodiversity was signed at the Rio Earth Summit

Key Points

• Rio Earth Summit:
  • The Rio Earth Summit, also known as the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in 1992.
  • The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) was one of the major agreements opened for signature at this summit.
  • The CBD is a multilateral treaty with three main goals: the conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components, and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from genetic resources.
  • This convention is considered a landmark in the field of environmental conservation and sustainable development.

Additional Information

• Paris Climate Conference:
  • The Paris Climate Conference, also known as COP21, was held in 2015 and led to the Paris Agreement, which focuses on climate change mitigation, adaptation, and finance.
  • It did not address the Convention on Biodiversity.
• Stockholm Conference:
  • The Stockholm Conference, also known as the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment, was held in Stockholm, Sweden, in 1972.
  • It focused on environmental issues but did not result in the Convention on Biodiversity.
• Hague Conference:
  • The Hague Conference generally refers to a series of international conferences focusing on international law and the laws of war, not specifically related to the Convention on Biodiversity.
  • It is not associated with environmental treaties like the CBD.

Key Points

Statement A: COP 26 : Glasgow Climate Change Conference
This statement is correct. COP 26 indeed took place in Glasgow, Scotland, in 2021. It was a significant meeting where countries updated their plans for reducing emissions and discussed global climate action strategies.
Statement B: COP 25 : Lima Climate Change Conference
This statement is incorrect. COP 25 took place in Madrid, Spain, in 2019, after a last-minute change in venue from Santiago, Chile. The COP that took place in Lima, Peru, was COP 20 in 2014.
Statement C: COP 24 : Marrakesh Climate Change Conference
This statement is incorrect. COP 24 was held in Katowice, Poland, in 2018. The conference focused on finalizing the rules for implementing the Paris Agreement. The COP held in Marrakesh, Morocco, was COP 22 in 2016.
Statement D: COP 22 : Katowice Climate Change Conference
This statement is incorrect. As mentioned above, COP 22 took place in Marrakesh, Morocco, not in Katowice, Poland. COP 24 is the one that was held in Katowice.
Statement E: COP 21 : Paris Climate Change Conference
This statement is correct. COP 21, held in Paris, France, in 2015, was a landmark conference that resulted in the Paris Agreement. This global accord aims to limit global warming to well below 2, preferably to 1.5 degrees Celsius, compared to pre-industrial levels.
Conclusion:
Hence, Statement A (COP 26: Glasgow Climate Change Conference) is correct.
Statement E (COP 21: Paris Climate Change Conference) is also correct.
The other statements are incorrect based on the actual locations and years of the COP conferences mentioned.
Therefore, the correct answer is option 1: A and E only.

The correct option is 1)(a), (b) and (c) are true.

Key Points

• Universal access to affordable, reliable and modern energy services
  • This statement is true.
  • One of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) focuses on ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all by 2030 (SDG 7).
  • This goal recognizes the importance of energy in achieving almost all other SDGs, from its role in eradicating poverty through advancements in health, education, water supply and industrialization, to combating climate change.
• Improving the share of renewable energy
  • This statement is also true.
  • Increasing the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix is part of the targets under SDG 7, which aims to substantially increase the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix by 2030.
  • Transitioning to renewable energy sources is crucial for sustainable development and combating climate change.
• Doubling of energy efficiency by 2030
  • This statement is true as well.
  • Another target of SDG 7 is to double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency by 2030.
  • Improving energy efficiency is seen as a key approach to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving sustainable development.
• Protection of ocean and wetland
  • This statement, however, is not directly related to the specific goals mentioned in SDG 7, which focuses on energy.
  • While protection of oceans and wetlands is critical for sustainable development, it is more directly addressed in other SDGs, such as SDG 14 (Life Below Water) and SDG 15 (Life on Land), rather than the energy-focused SDG 7.

Hence, Statements (a), (b), and (c) are correct, making option 1 the correct answer.

Key Points

Correct Answer: United Nations Conference on the Human Environment, 1972
Explanation: This conference, also known as the Stockholm Conference, marked the first major international meeting on the environment. It led to the creation of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and set the stage for future global environmental policies, including those adopted by India in the form of the Environment (Protection) Act and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act. The conference emphasized the need for a balanced and integrated approach to environmental issues, which these acts aim to address.
Incorrect Options:
San Francisco Conference, 1945: This conference was primarily focused on the establishment of the United Nations post-World War II, rather than environmental issues. It was significant for international peace and security but did not directly contribute to the development of environmental legislation.
United Nations Conference on Environment and Development, 1992: Also known as the Earth Summit, this conference took place in Rio de Janeiro and was significant for the adoption of Agenda 21, the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, and the establishment of the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Framework Convention on Climate Change. While influential in global environmental policy, it was not the direct impetus for the Indian acts mentioned.
United Nations Conference on Environment, 1982: There was no major environmental conference held under this name in 1982. The closest event around this time was the World Charter for Nature, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1982, which laid down principles for the conservation and sustainable use of the natural environment, but it was not directly responsible for the creation of the specific Indian laws mentioned.

Key Points

To solve this question, we need to arrange the climate change initiatives in chronological order. Let's examine each option in detail:
C. Vienna Convention on climate change: This is not accurately named regarding climate change. The Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer was adopted in 1985. It's a framework convention, setting general obligations to protect the ozone layer but not specifically addressing climate change. Therefore, its reference here might be slightly misleading, but in terms of chronological order related to environmental agreements, it comes first.
B. Montreal Protocol on climate change: Similar to the Vienna Convention, this title is slightly misleading. The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer was agreed upon in 1987, following the Vienna Convention. It's not directly a climate change initiative but is significant for climate change because it deals with substances that both deplete the ozone layer and act as greenhouse gases.
E. Kyoto Protocol on climate change: The Kyoto Protocol is an international treaty that extends the 1992 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and commits state parties to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, based on the scientific consensus that (part one) global warming is occurring and (part two) it is extremely likely that human-made CO2 emissions have predominantly caused it. It was adopted in Kyoto, Japan, in December 1997.
D. Copenhagen Summit on climate change: Officially the 15th Conference of the Parties (COP 15) to the UNFCCC, took place in Copenhagen, Denmark, in December 2009. It was an important meeting but failed to produce a legally binding agreement for the long-term cooperative action on climate change.
A. Durban conference on climate change: The Durban conference (COP 17) took place in Durban, South Africa, in 2011. It led to the Durban Platform for Enhanced Action, a decision to work towards a legal instrument that would apply to all parties.
Given this information, the correct chronological order of these initiatives and conferences is:
1. C. Vienna Convention (1985, with a note on the slight misnomer)
2. B. Montreal Protocol (1987)
3. E. Kyoto Protocol (1997)
4. D. Copenhagen Summit (2009)
5. A. Durban conference (2011)
- Hence, the correct answer is option 4 (C, B, E, D, A).
This solution systematically addresses the chronological order of significant environmental and climate change initiatives, highlighting the correct sequence and providing context for each event.

Key Points

• Rio de Janeiro Conference:
  • The Rio de Janeiro Conference, also known as the Earth Summit, was held in 1992.
  • It focused on sustainable development and established principles for the protection and preservation of the environment.
  • One of the key outcomes was the call for states to provide effective access to judicial and administrative proceedings, including redress and remedy.

Additional Information

• Stockholm Conference:
  • The Stockholm Conference was held in 1972 and was the first major international conference on environmental issues.It focused on the human environment and led to the creation of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
• Johannesburg Conference:
  • The Johannesburg Conference, also known as the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD), was held in 2002.
  • It aimed to assess progress since the Rio Summit and to further the implementation of Agenda 21.
• Kyoto Conference:
  • The Kyoto Conference, held in 1997, resulted in the Kyoto Protocol, which set binding targets for industrialized countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
  • It focused specifically on climate change rather than broader environmental or sustainable development issues.

 The correct answer is 3) Brundtland Report.

Key Points

• The Brundtland Commission, officially known as the World Commission on Environment & Development (WCED), released "Our Common Future" in 1987, which popularized and defined the term "Sustainable Development."
• The Brundtland Commission was created by the United Nations to suggest measures to protect the human environment and natural resources and prevent deterioration of economic and social development.
• The mission of the Brundtland Commission is to unite countries to pursue sustainable development together.

Correct Answer: 1) Nagoya ProtocolKey Points

• The Nagoya Protocol on Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising from their Utilization (the Protocol) is a legally binding global agreement that implements the access and benefit-sharing obligations of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD).
• It was adopted by the CBD in Nagoya, Japan, in October 2010 and entered into force on October 12, 2014, 90 days after the deposit of the fiftieth instrument of ratification. 
• It provides a transparent legal framework for the effective implementation of one of the three objectives of the CBD: the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resources.

Key Points

To solve the question and arrange the events in chronological order, let's look at each of the events mentioned:
(A) United Nations Conference on the Human Environment: This conference took place in 1972 in Stockholm, Sweden. It was the first major international conference on environmental issues and is often referred to as the Stockholm Conference.
(B) United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development: Also known as Rio+20, this conference occurred in 2012 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It marked the 20th anniversary of the first Earth Summit.
(C) United Nations Conference on Environment and Development: Commonly known as the Earth Summit, this pivotal conference was held in 1992, also in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. It led to the adoption of Agenda 21, a comprehensive plan of action to be taken globally, nationally, and locally by organizations of the United Nations, governments, and major groups in every area in which humans impact the environment.
(D) World Commission on Environment and Development: Established in 1983, this commission is best known for publishing the Brundtland Report in 1987, which introduced the concept of sustainable development.
(E) United Nations Sustainable Development: This is a bit tricky as it's not referring to a specific event like the others, but rather an ongoing effort and commitment by the United Nations. For the sake of chronology, the key milestones here would be the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015.
Now, arranging these in chronological order:
1. (A) United Nations Conference on the Human Environment (1972): 
2. (D) World Commission on Environment and Development (1983):
3. (C) United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (1992):
4. (B) United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (2012):
5. (E) United Nations Sustainable Development (2015):
Hence, the correct chronological order is option 3: (A), (D), (C), (B), (E).