Eco Gp Package On Climate Change And Environment

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a nonprofit environmental social enterprise for youths.

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GP Information Package on the Environment and Climate Change

Prepared for: All students and everyone Prepared by: ECO Singapore, Gabriel Teo

ECO Singapore. Information Package on the Environment and Climate Change.

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a nonprofit environmental social enterprise for youths.

Table of Contents Foreword

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Author

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ECO President

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Climate Change

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Introduction

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Effects and Impacts

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Inequity of climate change

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The Paradox

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Conclusion

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Policies and Efforts

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Kyoto Protocol

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Copenhagen

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ECO Delegation

Singapore

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Threats

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Stance

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Energy Situation

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Analysis

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Energy

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Nonrenewable sources

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Renewable Sources

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Analysis

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Going green

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Description

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Tips

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Essay

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Introduction

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Essay

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ECO Singapore. Information Package on the Environment and Climate Change.

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Foreword Author As a student myself, I am both concerned about my General Paper and uptight about the environmental issues shrouding the world today.This information package was conceived in the hope of aiding everyone in our A Levels, more specifically in the field of environmental essay topics. Through this package, I also hope to share my knowledge and analysis of the environmental issues and concerns on a larger scale to spread awareness and promote an change in lifestyles. Please take time off to read this information package and may it benefit you academically in your General Paper pursuits, as well as in developing an interest in climate change. All the best for the upcoming A Levels! Gabriel Teo Chief Editor [email protected]

ECO President Environmental Challenge Organisation (Singapore) is the leading non-governmental youth environmental social enterprise in Singapore that promotes sustainable lifestyles. Through our activities to generate environmental awareness and interest, we hope to foster a sense of ownership and commitment amongst youths to impact a lifestyle change in them. ECO believes that there is a role for everyone to play in the mitigation of climate change and a strong potential for youths to participate actively in this global effort. Through this package, we hope to spread environmental awareness amongst youths, in particular students. Of course, ECO sincerely wishes all students the best in their academic pursuits, for A Levels and beyond. Wilson Ang Founder/ President of ECO Singapore [email protected]

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Climate Change Introduction The Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change (IPCC) concluded that anthropogenic interference in the environment would lead to some impacts that are abrupt and/or irreversible. With global temperatures and sea levels rising, coupled with an influx of irregular weather patterns, Man is beginning to bear the consequences of our short-sighted, selfish and irresponsible activities. As of 2009, the world's total emission levels stand at 389 CO2 parts per million (PPM), and 435 PPM CO2 equivalence emissions. This is a strong cause for worry and concern amongst many environmentalists and has lead to increasing clamors worldwide for carbon reduction and mitigation efforts.

Effects and Impacts 1. Countries in higher latitude regions may benefit as the climate will become more suitable for crop cultivation. Yet, the more significant loss of crop volume in other countries will result in a net reduction in global crop volume. 2. Declining crop yields due to weather changes may trigger widespread famine. At temperature rises of 4°C and above, global food production is likely to be seriously affected. 3. Melting glaciers will initially increase flood risk and strongly reduce fresh water supplies, eventually threatening one-sixth of the world’s population with thirst and/or death. 4. Epidemics, like malaria and dengue fever, can break out if effective control measures are not in place. 5. Rising sea levels will result in massive human displacement with the loss of human habitats. Severe risks for low-lying costal areas like South East Asian nations (Vietnam and Bangladesh) and coastal cities like Tokyo and London. 6. Ecosystems will be particularly vulnerable to climate change, with around 15 - 40% of species potentially facing extinction with a 2°C increase in temperature. 7. All these factors will eventually culminate in a 20% reduction in the world's GDP. This represents a dire impact towards the world's economy.

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Inequity of climate change The inequality of the consequences of climate change lies in the sad fact that whilst the developing nations have historically contributed much lesser to climate change (due to their previously low levels of carbon emissions), they are the ones who will be affected most severely. Developing nations are at a geographical disadvantage as they are already warmer and experience high rainfall variability. Thus, further warming will result in high adaptation costs and economic losses towards these developing nations. Developing nations are generally more dependent on agriculture, both for subsistence farming and exports. Agriculture, being the most climate sensitive of all economic sectors, will be hit the hardest. The inadequate health care provision and low-quality public services of these nations will cause them to suffer more than proportionately. Furthermore, their low income and vulnerabilities make adaption to climate change particularly difficult.

The Paradox The environment needs Man to peak our carbon emissions by 2015, and decarbonise economy by 50-80% by end of 2100. A safe estimate of carbon stabilization level is at 550PPM. By 2050, global emissions need to be around 25% lower than current levels. However, the world's economy is protracted to expand by 3-4 times larger than current size. Demand for power supply estimated to double by 2050. Thus therein lies the paradox of economic development and sustainable future. The world needs to double our power supply by 2050 to cater to increasing demands yet at the same time reduce our carbon emissions by a volume of 50 to 80%.

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Conclusion Scientific research has concluded, that without a doubt, human activity has adversely affected the environment that we live in. Alternative theories like the sun spot theory provides little credence in comparison with the IPCC's conclusion of anthropogenic interferences being the cause for climate change. Scientists have already conceived the estimations of climate change effects on our world. They have also set various quotas such as 350, 450 and 550 PPM stabilizing levels for our carbon emission levels. What's lacking is the human will and resolution to commit to a sustainable future, for us and for our future generations.

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Policies and Efforts Kyoto Protocol Description Established by the Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change (IPCC), the Kyoto Protocol had a simple aim: to stabilize greenhouse gases concentrations in the atmosphere to a level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system. Adopted in 1997, Kyoto Japan, the Kyoto Protocol established legally binding commitments towards reduction in greenhouse gases, stipulating that industrialized countries should reduce their carbon emissions by 5.2% based on 1990 levels. By January 2009, 183 countries have ratified the protocol Countries are split into two main groups, the Annex 1 countries (developed and industrialized) and the non-Annex 1 countries. The Annex 1 countries consisting of developed countries like Japan, Canada, Italy, Germany, France, the European Union and USA are legally bound to adhere to emission targets set by the IPCC. The non-Annex 1 countries, most notably China and India, are not legally bound towards any agreement towards carbon reduction in the Kyoto Protocol. The key framework is based on historical responsibilities, where the developed and industrialized countries were the main contributors towards greenhouse gas emissions in the past and thus should bear the bulk of reduction efforts. This further led on to the agreement of common but differentiated responsibility in the reduction efforts in the Kyoto Protocol. This framework was established on grounds that the carbon emission levels of the developing nations are still relatively low and their development will require extensive carbon intensive infrastructure. Yet, their share of global emissions will eventually increase as these countries expand to cater to social and development needs. Hence, their responsibilities would be increased accordingly in the future. Yet even without any binding agreements in place, developing nations like BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India and China) have been facing mounting international pressure to engage in sustainable development in recent years. Apart from carbon reduction targets, developed nations are required to pay billions of dollars in supplying technology to other countries for climate related studies and projects. Yet sadly, these stipulated commitments, together with the targets, have fallen drastically short of expectations.

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Schemes/ Flexibility Mechanisms

Emissions Trading Kyoto Protocol imposes a "cap and trade system" to regulate the total global carbon emissions. Different countries are allocated different amount of carbon credits and these credits are then extended towards individual industrial entities by the countries to limit the amount of carbon emissions permissible for their industrial activity. Thus each firm is allocated a fixed amount of such credits. A carbon price is established according to free market forces and carbon credits are traded for financial benefits. Firms are thus economically incentivized to reduce their carbon emissions. If successful in their efforts, achieving carbon emission level below than that of the allocated credits will allow firms to sell off credits for economic profits to those firms whose emission exceeded their allocated quota. Clean Development Mechanism Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) is an arrangement under the Kyoto Protocol allowing industrialized countries with a greenhouse gas reduction commitment (Annex 1 countries) to invest in projects that reduce emissions in developing countries (non-Annex 1 countries) as an alternative to more expensive emission reductions in their own countries. An important feature in CDM projects is that the planned reductions in the developing cities would not have occurred without the additional incentive provided by the emission reductions credits. This thereby fosters a reduction in the total global carbon emissions whilst providing countries with a cheaper alternative to 'outsource' these emission reductions. Joint Implementation Joint Implementation (JI) allows any Annex 1 countries to invest in emission reduction projects in any other Annex 1 countries as an alternative to reducing emissions domestically. JI has attracted less controversy and concern of spurious emission reductions as it takes place in countries which have an emission reduction requirement. Enforcement The enforcement branch of the Kyoto Protocol can suspend any Annex 1 countries whom they deem not in compliance with its emission limits. This country is also required to make up for the difference plus an additional 30%. Yet there have been strong doubts over the effectiveness and activity of the enforcement branch, as little action undertaken by them.

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Analysis The Kyoto Protocol has attracted wide criticism and cynicism over the extent of its effectiveness. One major flaw in the Kyoto is its failure to establish a strong enforcement arm that regulates carbon emissions from Annex 1 countries. This flaw is most tenable through the example of US failure to enshrine the carbon reduction schemes into its constitution. As such, whilst the US persists in its polluting and carbon emitting activities, little has been or can be done to regulate them. In fact, the US emissions volume rose by 20% from 1990 levels. Another flaw is the inequitable divide between the Annex 1 and non-Annex 1 countries. Whilst the current policy works on grounds of common but differentiated responsibility, the non-Annex 1 countries are not bound by any forms of agreement. Thus whilst China (+150%) and India (+103%), amongst many developing nations, embark on their development plans, they are not legally bound to abide by any emission regulations. Yet, defenders of the Kyoto Protocol argue that whilst the initial greenhouse gas cuts may have had insignificant effects due to the paltry reduction levels, they set the political precedent for future bigger and more effective cuts. Thus, the Kyoto can be perceived to represent a small but vital step in the mitigation efforts against climate change. Furthermore, there have been successes of the Kyoto Protocol. The United Kingdom has achieved an overall 58.8% reduction in green house gas emissions level as compared to 1990 (2004 data), whilst Denmark (-22%), Germany (-18%) and Norway (-18%) have reported promising results.

Conclusion The Kyoto Protocol is a good first step in the right direction. Yet its many flaws and insufficient areas demonstrate that much improvement can still be made. Upcoming talks, like that in Copenhagen, December, will prove crucial in the global effort towards climate change mitigation. An encouraging sign is that governments with a strong will, like that of the European Union, can produce encouraging results in emission reductions.

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Copenhagen Description Climate change is an undeniable phenomenon that is occurring, and there is a common consensus that we are presently in a crucial period in which we posses the capability to implement measures and tools to avert the severe effects of climate change. With the Kyoto Protocol due to expire in 2012, the world seeks renewal towards its sole largest agreement on carbon emissions and climate change. In the previous analysis of the Kyoto Protocol, we have seen the various strengths and flaws in the treaty. This year's Conference of Party 15 (COP15) held at Copenhagen in December 2009 promises to be a landmark summit in the climate change landscape. Many environmental activists hope that a new fair and ambitious climate deal can be forged to succeed the Kyoto Protocol.

Discussion The Copenhagen conference signifies a key milestone in the world's fight against climate change. If successful, it will represent a huge step made by the international community to avert the devastating effects of climate change. The key to a successful deal hinges on binding emission reduction commitments by developed countries. While the Kyoto Protocol managed to gather initial support from Annex 1 countries, it failed to enforce the commitments made by the countries. Another important aspect would be the financial and technological support provided to the developing nations for mitigation and adaptation strategies. As discussed earlier, developing nations need to be empowered with such aid to effect a change towards a path of sustainable development. The mechanisms under the Kyoto Protocol also seek renewal and improvement. The scope of the Clean Development Mechanism and Joint Implementations schemes should have their scope expanded to cater to a diverse range of projects. Also, a strong settlement over the furore of carbon credits for both Annex 1 countries and non Annex 1 countries need to be resolved. Presently, there remains strong contention over the equitability of proposed emission levels cap. Any agreement formulated must take into account the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and impose avenues for enforcement and checks and balances. Singapore also seeks active participation in the upcoming talks. Despite the fact that Singapore will be playing a minor role at the discussion table at Copenhagen, we intend to play a crucial role in the small island states strategy. Singapore will also be pushing for goals in line with its fundamental aims of improving carbon efficiency and research into clean energy sources. ECO Information Package on the Environment and Climate Change.

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In summary, the outcome of this conference will have strong implications for both our generation and the future ones to come. Governments need to cast aside their vested interests and embrace the collective interests of the global population to effect a real impact in our efforts to combat climate change.

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ECO Delegation Singapore will also be sending a youth delegation team consisting of activists from ECO Singapore with the task of playing an active role in the YOUNGO (Youth Nongovernmental Organization). Our youth delegates will play key roles in organizing the Conference of Youths (COY is aimed at informing youths about the latest updates and insights into climate change whilst formulating a collective youth stance) and providing regular updates on the latest developments in Copenhagen. We hope that we can extend our knowledge of climate change and the latest developments in Copenhagen to the Singaporean population during our trip there. We will sincerely appreciate if you could tag our blog at http:// unfcccecosingapore.wordpress.com/ and visit our blog frequently during the duration of the COP15 from December 5 to December 19. (December 5-7 is the Conference of Youths, while the COP15 kicks off on December 7) Youths interested in our environmental cause can also check out our webpage http://www.eco-singapore.org/ or sign up to our facebook group ECO Singapore for more information. We really hope to hear from you guys!

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Singapore Threats Rising sea levels Singapore is an island state surrounded by water bodies. Whilst we were not directly under threat with the rise in sea levels in recent years (Singapore is not as low-lying as some countries like Bangladesh), a persistent rise in sea levels will pose a strong threat in future. This threat is made worse by the fact that we are an island state. Unlike other countries with only partial exposure to the sea, Singapore is surrounded completely by water. Hence, Singapore is unable to erect sea barricades or flood barriers to obliterate the threat of the flooding of our country. Thus, we remain highly vulnerable to rising sea levels.

Food security Heavily dependent on neighboring agricultural countries for our supply of food, Singapore faces a potential food crisis in view of the dire effects of climate change. Our trading partners face potential loss of crops through impending droughts and irregular weather patterns which might potentially affect our food security.

Health security SARS and the recent H1N1 pandemic had presented strong threats to our nation's healthy security. With global warming and its impacts on temperatures and weather patterns, it can potentially lead to the outbreak of new diseases through virus mutations or the worsening of virus transmission in our Singaporean context.

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Stance Singapore has always sought to balance its twin goals of environmental sustainability and economic growth. Our over-arching campaign of the 3Ps, People, Public and Private, promotes involvement from different stakeholders in society. We seek to mitigate our carbon emission levels by pursuing action and policies in 4 main fields.

Boosting resource efficiency Singapore endeavors to examine and improve our usage of key resources such as water and energy, whilst expanding our use of renewable resources. Keeping our economic development goal in mind, Singapore focuses on utilizing fewer resources by boosting our resource efficiency, thereby improving our competitiveness. With a goal of 35% improvement in energy efficiency and increasing recycling rates by 70% by 2030, Singapore has established bold yet attainable aims to improve our resource efficiency. Yet, as will be elaborated later, Singapore is faced by severe geographical limitations and is thus unable to harness much potential from alternative energy sources.

Enhancing our urban environment Billed as a garden city, Singapore aims to further develop into a sustainable, high-density urban city that is clean and green. The government seeks to develop an established public transport system while promoting car-pooling schemes to reduce the greenhouse gases emissions from vehicle usage.

Building capabilities Singapore has invested heavily in establishing new capabilities and testing new technologies to aid us in overcoming our physical resource limitation. Such research also boosts our environmental performance and spurs economic growth. Singapore is also strongly interested in fostering regional cooperations and agreements to develop sustainable cities around the world. For example, Tianjin Eco-city (joint project by Singapore and China)

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Fostering community action Campaigns such as “Clean & Green lifestyle” revolving around the three pillars of clean environment, energy efficiency and resource conservation are targeted to engender a lifestyle change. Public programmes like Recycling Day, 10-Litre Challenge (reduce water consumption) and Singapore Litter Free offer avenues for citizens to play an active role in environmental conservation. Furthermore, various schemes are pitched at different groups of individuals in society to deepen their environmental awareness. These range from corporate initiatives like ECO Office Scheme to youth outreach mediums like Bayer Young Environmental Envoy Programmes and Sembawang Shipyard Green Wave Competition.

Energy Situation Singapore is buoyed down by geographical limitations and is thus unable to harness much potential from alternative energy sources. Presently, our wind speed is recorded at speeds of 2.2-4 m/s, below the cost effective level of 5 m/s. Furthermore, we lack natural resources, with neither rapidly flowing water bodies or strong tides for hydroelectric and tidal power nor 'hot rocks' beneath Singapore for geothermal energy. With our limited land space, Singapore is unable to demarcate required evacuation sites away from any plausible nuclear plant constructed domestically. (Residents within a certain radius from any nuclear power plant are required to have an evacuation plan.) Our last alternative, solar energy, promises little potential due to the high humidity and insufficient sunlight intensity in Singapore. Currently, Singapore has erected solar grids along the Marina Barrage, religious and government buildings and HDB estates like Treetops@Punggol to test the effectiveness of solar energy in Singapore. Despite our inability to draw on renewable sources of energy, Singapore has improved our energy generation to 80% power from natural gas, which has a significantly lower level of carbon emission than coal. Singapore has also invested vast amount of capital into efforts to boost our efficiency in energy usage and generation. Our power generation efficiency has improved from 38% in 2000 to 44% in 2006, thereby improving our energy per unit fuel in power generation. E2 Singapore was also established to review and boost energy efficiency in various sectors of industries, transport, households, building, public sectors and power generation. Successes have been forged in this aspect, yet more still can be done to heighten Singapore efforts.

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Analysis Singapore faces the perennial struggle between economic development and environmental sustainability. While some argue the answer lies in sustainable development, the Singaporean government contends that such efforts are restricted by our relatively high standards of living. Green corporate practices and schemes have already been implemented yet our growing economy still consumes increasing levels of carbon. Thus, while the carbon efficiency of our economy is improving annually, our total volume of carbon emission is also increasing too. Some argue that Singapore only represents a fraction of the total global carbon emission, at about 0.17% (ranked 53 in the world). Yet in terms of per capita emissions, Singapore is ranked 10th in the world. While any reduction in carbon emissions by Singapore will play a minimal role in reducing global emissions, it still does not warrant Singapore shirking from its global responsibility in the fight against climate change. The Singapore government has made notable efforts as mentioned earlier. Yet there are still areas of improvements. Approaches thus far have mainly been a top down approach with the government implementing various schemes and strategizing devices to promote an environmentally friendly style of living for the people. Yet we all recognize that for Singapore to achieve a substantial reduction in carbon emissions, a change in the Singapore consumerism and lifestyle habits must be engendered. Hence the upcoming challenge for Singapore is to translate its noble plans and visions for a sustainable future into a concrete lifestyle change by the Singapore population. Indeed, Singapore needs its 3Ps of People, Public and Private to make a collective effort in its plan for carbon emission reductions. Singapore has always played an integral role in ASEAN in areas of economic development and geopolitical agreements on peace and security. As ASEAN seeks further transnational agreements on the issue of environment, Singapore can play a leading role in establishing the direction and fostering stronger political will for sustainable development. Indeed, Singapore remains one of the most developed countries in ASEAN, both economically and socially. Thus it is fair to assert the notion that Singapore should firstly lead by example and secondly assist fellow nations in this effort to attain sustainable development. Leading by example would entail Singapore adopting extensive sustainable development policies and engendering a shift towards green consumerism and lifestyle. Possible methods of providing assistance would be through avenues of technology transfer and joint regional development projects with our ASEAN member countries to empower them with means to pursue sustainable development. Therefore, there is a huge leadership role that Singapore can fill in its involvement with the regional members of ASEAN.

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Energy Nonrenewable sources Fossil Fuels Description Consists of coal, petroleum and natural gases. Fossil fuels were used widely in industries as the main energy source, notably forming the cornerstone of the Industrial Revolution in early 19th century. It constitute about 86% of world's energy usage in 2006. Strengths There are already present technology and infrastructure in place. Furthermore, fossil fuels have high mobility (natural gases) and can thus be easily transported for usage in energy generation. Weaknesses Combustion of fossil fuels releases harmful gases, with notably high levels of carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. It proved detrimental towards the environment as these greenhouse gases accelerate environmental degradation. Furthermore, heavy reliance on fossil fuels creates energy security risks for dependent countries. It is also a non renewable source and lacks sustainability in fossil fuels reliance.

Nuclear Energy Description Harnessed through nuclear power stations through nuclear fission of uranium-235 in nuclear reactor, nuclear energy is used widely by USA, France, Japan, Germany and Russia. In 2007, 14% of world power comes from nuclear energy. To date, nuclear energy promises the largest potential for the future energy landscape. Strengths It promises huge potential in energy generation. There is also no pollutant gases evolved thus posing minimal contribution to global warming. ECO Information Package on the Environment and Climate Change.

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Weaknesses There is the inextricable nuclear threat and crisis. Yet, a point to note is that a nuclear power plant takes about 3 years to harness nuclear weapon capabilities. (read up on Treaty on the Nonproliferation of Nuclear Weapons). There also exists the problem of improper management leading to nuclear leakage, with incidents like the Chernobyl disaster in Ukraine. Nuclear energy is also a non renewable source which may be a strong limiting factor towards its potential.

Renewable Sources Solar Power Description Most popular form of renewable energy source, solar energy harnesses energy from the sun through solar cells. It is used widely in USA (Arizona) and China (solar-powered Dongtan Eco City). Yet it has reportedly low levels of effectiveness in comparison to other forms of renewable energy. Strengths Solar energy is renewable and pollution free. It remains extremely vital to people living in off grid areas like in Africa and Latin America (areas not connected to the local power grid). Weaknesses Solar energy has a high cost per unit electricity generated and thus is not very economically feasible.It ha limited usage (ineffective at night or areas with limited sunlight) and a long energy payback time of about 1-5 years (duration before the power generated pays off the initial investment costs)

Wind Energy Description Harnessed through wind turbines in large scale wind farms, wind energy is used widely in Denmark, Spain and Portugal. Wind energy constitutes about 1.5% of the world electricity usage. The cost per unit energy of wind power is comparable to fossil fuels in areas with strong wind speeds.

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Strengths Wind energy is renewable and pollution free, coupled with its high cost effectiveness. Weaknesses Wind speed and strength can be very unpredictable and thus cannot be fully relied on. Heavy metal costs remain a strong cause for consideration of economic viability.

Hydroelectric Power Description Usage of turbine or water wheel to generate electricity by harnessing energy from concentrated water flow and pressure through a dam. Constitutes about 6.3% of world's electricity in 2006. The most famous dam is the Three Gorges Dam in China. Strengths There is no primary waste or pollution and is thus very environmentally friendly. It also provides constant generation of energy. Weaknesses Potential severe environment impact on the ecology landscape in surrounding areas. through destruction of local habitat for animals and relocation of homes for people. Geographical constraints can also pose a problem as dams require strong and rapid water flow.

Biomass and biofuel. Description Specially modified genetic crops (biofuel) combusted to generate electricity. Garbage and animal waste (manure) can also be converted into biomass to harness energy. Recent application has seen energy from biofuel and biomass used in hybrid vehicles, creating a new generation of carbon neutral commercial transportation. Strengths Biomass and biofuels are renewable source of energy. It promotes recycling waste and maximizes energy generation from human activity. There is also no net increase in the carbon dioxide level in the atmosphere. (plants absorb CO2 during its lifetime and releases on combustion) ECO Information Package on the Environment and Climate Change.

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Weaknesses At current technology levels, there is a low energy efficiency from biomass and biofuel. Poor planning and management have resulted in food crisis as farmers switch to biofuel crops for agriculture.This has resulted in a problem of famine amongst impoverished nations, whilst food prices escalate due to a shortage of supply.

Geothermal Energy Description Geothermal energy harnesses heat energy beneath the Earth. It currently supplies 0.3% of world's energy demand. Examples of Iceland and Australia geothermal power plant. Strengths There are minimal costs involved in harnessing the heat (apart from basic setup and maintenance costs). Weaknesses Geothermal energy has been hampered by strong geographical constraints as it requires suitable hot rocks before energy generation becomes economically feasible.

Analysis Relying on fossil fuels for long term power generation is definitely not feasible and sustainable for our environment. Yet in view of its success in powering the Age of Industrialization (with the developed countries), many developing countries persist in their usage of fossil fuels. Their primary objective is to pursue economic development with the lowest costs and most substantial results, thus ignoring environmental concerns of pollution and climate change. The challenge for the developed nations is to persuade these developing nations to embrace clean technology to commit towards a sustainable development path. Several avenues to impact such a change include strategies under the Kyoto Protocol like technology transfer, joint implementation and clean development mechanism. Alternatively, developed nations could provide green financial aid to encourage more sustainable developments. Current alternative energy sources are promising with strong potential. At current levels, conventional fossil fuels provide the lowest cost per unit energy to most countries and hence poses a lucrative avenue for cheap energy supply. In order for alternative energy sources to be widely adopted by the world, more funding and research must be poured into it. This can be financed through government funding to develop new industries or private research institutions looking for monetary profits. With the world acknowledging the problem of climate change ECO Information Package on the Environment and Climate Change.

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and recognizing the disastrous effects of carbon emissions, it can be concluded that there will be a strong global demand for sustainable energy sources in the upcoming years ahead. The key for the international organizations is to establish a fixed carbon market and price to bolster investors confidence towards the carbon trading market to better encourage investments. Amongst the various types of alternative energy sources available, it appears that nuclear energy is increasing in popularity and demand. From rogue nations like Iran and North Korea to neighboring states like Malaysia and Indonesia, there have been talks and discussions over harnessing nuclear technology. The inevitable question over the intentions of nuclear capabilities (weapons) or nuclear energy emerges coupled with security concerns and threats. Yet the truth remains: the world requires a swift and binding resolution towards the Treaty of the Nonproliferation of Nuclear Weapons to minimize obstacles and concerns over the development of nuclear power. To date, putting aside its many complications and adverse secondary effects, nuclear power by far promises the world's most potent tool and main hope towards a sustainable future with clean technology. Keeping in mind the various other alternative energy sources, we can safely conclude that the world possesses the required technology to embark on a clean and sustainable development path. While science may have been the primary cause for the carbon emissions and climate change, science has also bestowed us with the abilities to mitigate the adverse effects. With appropriate and adequate focus, our world can definitely solve this global phenomenon together.

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Going green Description Of course, this package nicely concludes with several environmentally friendly tips. We hope that through this package, all of you will be more motivated to proactively engage in environmental conservation efforts. As youths, we have the power and ability to implement changes in our personal lifestyle as well as urge and influence our surroundings to engage and embrace an environmentally friendly lifestyle too. Below are some simple tips, though not exhaustive, on being proactive over the environmental efforts.

Tips Reduce, Reuse and Recycle While this campaign theme has been imprinted into us since young, it has since lost its influence in our lives. Reducing our consumption through reusing and recycling will go a long way to reduce the total volume of carbon emissions in the environment.

Taking public transport Many of us still commute using private transports, be it our parents car or public transport. While we are still young and full of energy, we should experiment with the public transport system and enjoy the company of our friends. After all, Singapore has one of the world's best public transport system, in terms of its connectivity and efficiency.

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Reducing electricity consumption Air conditioning through the night may ensure a night of good sleep and comfort, yet it is certainly not friendly towards the environment. As youths, we also tend to consume electricity extensively in our daily usage of appliances. Switching to alternatives like the fan is one proactive change that many youths can adopt to conserve the environment. Turning off electrical appliances after usage is another change that we can all collectively adopt.

Buy energy efficient and environmentally products Many of us do not personally pay for all the appliances and products in our houses. After all we are still dependent on our parents. Yet we possess the ability to influence our parents and friends to purchase and support these environmentally friendly products. The next time you go shopping, look out for items with the green energy label or those with lesser packaging and bring along your own shopping bag.

Encourage others to conserve Spread the message of environmental conservation with your friends and families. Even so, spread this package amongst your friends beyond our education level (to university and secondary school friends). Encourage your social circle to adopt a green and sustainable lifestyle and join in this Singaporean green movement.

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Essay Introduction This essay was extracted from Perspectives for the World, a compilation of essays written by Mr John Lim CG. Please visit his blog at http://gpmaster12.blogspot.com for a sample of his work. Enquiries should be directed to [email protected].

Essay “TOO LITTLE, TOO LATE.” DOES THIS DESCRIBE OUR EFFORTS IN REDUCING GLOBAL WARMING?

According to the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which shared the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize with former Vice President of the United States Al Gore, global warming is unequivocal, and most of the observed increase in global temperatures since the middle of the 20th century is very likely due to anthropogenic greenhouse gas concentrations. In the IPCC’s latest report published in March 2007, sea levels will probably rise by 18cm to 59 cm by 2100; the average surface temperature is projected to increase by 1.4 C to 5.8 C by 2100; there is more than 90% probability that there will be more frequent warm spells, heat waves and heavy rainfall; and there is a more than 66% probability that there will be increased droughts, tropical cyclones and extreme high tides. Alarmingly, global atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide have increased markedly as a result of human activities since 1750 and now far exceed pre-industrial values over the past 650,000 years. At the UN Climate Conference in Bali in December 2007, more than 200 experts issued a declaration calling for a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, with an interim goal endorsed by all major industrialized countries except the United States of 25%-40% cuts by 2020. These scientists warned that mankind must make deep cuts in emission of carbon dioxide and other heat-trapping gases, and even then there is only an even chance of heading off catastrophic global warming. The question arises whether mankind has

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taken full cognizance of the warnings issued by IPCC and has taken sufficient remedial steps to drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions before it is too late. In an apparently concerted response to such a woeful man-made crisis, both developed and developing countries met in 1997 to negotiate the Kyoto Protocol which eventually came into effect on 16 February 2005. Under this Kyoto Protocol, industrialized countries will reduce their collective emissions of greenhouse gases by 5.2% compared to their levels in 1990, averaged over the period of 2008-2012. National limitations range from 8% reductions for the European Union, 7% for the US, 6% for Japan, 0% for Russia, and permitted increases of 8% for Australia and 10% for Iceland. As part of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Kyoto Protocol was premised on the principle of “common but differentiated responsibilities.” This recognizes that the largest share of historical and current global emissions of greenhouse gases has originated in developed countries, per capita emissions in developing countries are relatively low, and share of global emissions originating from developing countries will grow to meet their social and development needs. Accordingly, China, India and other developing countries were not included in any numerical limitation of the Kyoto Protocol because they were not responsible for the greenhouse gas emissions during the pre-treaty industrialization period. Climate change is a very inequitable phenomenon. While developed countries have caused the accumulation of greenhouse gases since the Industrial Revolution, it is the poorer countries which will be hit the hardest. If the developing countries continue with “business as usual” mindsets, they will be the ones generating the most greenhouse emissions in the future. The Kyoto Protocol tried to redress this imbalance by creating a framework for a global carbon market, whereby a “cap and trade” system would allow developing countries with carbon emission allowances to sell carbon credits to developed countries which have exceeded their carbon emission caps. In essence, it is a trade in pollution license, giving economic incentives to developing countries to switch to cleaner energy alternatives or embrace green technologies while permitting developed countries to continue with their dependence on highly polluting fossil fuels Carbon offset projects are being conducted worldwide; for instance coal plants in the United States are financing forestry projects in Sabah with hopes of claiming credits to offset their emissions under the Kyoto Protocol. By putting a price on carbon emission, it was hoped that alternatives to carbon-emitting fossil fuels would be explored. Today the cap-and-trade market in the world is worth US$50 billion-US$60 billion. Even so, it is unclear whether a cap-and-trade regime would not become a zero-sum game; at best, it is only a temporary, quick fix to the problem of carbon emissions, and at its worst, it tends to engender financial markets in carbon credits instead of forcing countries and companies to wean themselves quickly and substantially off fossil fuels. The crash of the carbon market in Europe due to a surplus of credits allocated in its first phase (2005-2007) is worrisome. If the world expects the current Kyoto Protocol, which expires in 2012, to be mankind’s answer to global warming, it would be naïve. Out of 178 countries which have ratified the Kyoto Protocol as at 28 April 2008, (including Australia which ratified it in December 2007) the US is conspicuously not bound by it. As the world’s largest emitter of carbon dioxide from the burning of fossil fuels since 2005, the US merely signed the protocol symbolically on 12 November 1998 but has hitherto not ratified it. President George W Bush does not support the ECO Information Package on the Environment and Climate Change.

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fact that China (the largest emitter of carbon dioxide in 2007), India and other developing countries are not bound by any emission caps under the current protocol. In his words: “This is a challenge that requires a 100% effort; ours and the rest of the world’s…China was entirely exempted from the requirements of the Kyoto Protocol. India was also exempt from Kyoto Protocol. America’s unwillingness to embrace a flawed treaty should not be read by our friends and allies as any abdication of responsibility. On the contrary, my administration is committed to a leadership role on the issue of climate change. Our approach must be consistent with the long-term goals of stabilizing greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere.”

George Bush has not, during his presidential

tenure, pushed for the signing of a new protocol based on the drastic cuts of 50% by 2050 recommended by IPCC scientists, capitulating perhaps to strong lobbies from major oil companies and up against the fact that coalfired plants are clustered in 25 US states. Devoid of strong US leadership and commitment, and without the participation of China and India, the Kyoto Protocol is doomed to failure, regardless of the strong endorsement of the European Union. Thankfully, not every provincial leader in the US agrees with the position taken by George Bush. As of 18 January 2007, eight US states (which represent over 46 million people) are involved in a Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative which is a state-level emissions cap-and-trade program. On 31 August 2006, the California legislature (representing over 33 million Californians) reached an agreement with Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to reduce California’s greenhouse emissions (12th largest in the world) by 25% by the year 2020. This effectively aligns California’s efforts with the Kyoto initiative without the US being a signatory of the protocol! As of 4 December 2007, in response to the Mayor of Seattle’s nation-wide effort to get cities to endorse the Kyoto protocol, 740 cities in the US representing over 76 million Americans pledged their support to the Kyoto Protocol. Another development which complements the Kyoto Protocol promises some hope- the Asia Pacific Partnership on Clean Development and Climate. This is a project launched in January 2006 by 6 Asia-Pacific nations, namely Australia, China, India, Japan, South Korea and the US to co-operate on developing clean energy and environmental technologies. Each country would set its own goals for greenhouse gas emissions but without any enforcement mechanism. While the Bush administration waffled on climate change, the European Union (EU) seemed to have taken the lead in negotiating hard to get wavering countries on board. The EU produces about 22% of global greenhouse gas emissions and has agreed to an average cut of 8% from 1990 emission levels. To meet these targets, the EU created, in December 2002, an emissions trading system. Member countries that flout these quotas will be penalized. Current EU projections suggest that by 2008, the EU reduction will be at 4.7% below 1990 levels. In spite of such success, the EU is not resting on its laurels. On 10 January 2007, the European Commission announced plans for a European Union energy policy that included a unilateral 20% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2020, a cut of up to 50% by 2050 (which accords with the IPCC scientists’ recommendation), and a minimum target of 10% in the use of biofuels by 2020. While the US appeared lackadaisical, the EU was forging ahead. If this momentum is kept up and the targets are met, it will augur well for the world.

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Among EU member countries, Germany is in the forefront of fighting global warming. Germany has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 17.2% between 1990 and 2004. Germany’s green record is more about implementation than innovation. An eco-tax on fuel discourages petroleum use; laws promote waste reduction and recycling while subsidies encourage Germans to retrofit their homes with solar panels. Chancellor Angela Merkel is a conservative who has become a world leader in promoting policies on climate change. At the centre of Germany’s climate change policies is a unique law known as the Renewable Energy Sources law (or feed-in law) which subsidizes citizens who produce their own energy from renewable sources and allows them to sell surplus back to the nation’s power grid. This has caused production of renewable energy to be ramped up. Germans are also building giant offshore wind farms in North Sea, and nearly 250,000 Germans are employed in the renewable energy sector. The Environment Ministry estimates that more than 14% of Germany’s electricity now comes from renewable sources. The Environment Minister Sigmar Gabriel said, “We are going to prove that climate change and economic prosperity are not contradictions, but are mutually dependent.” This message seems to be catching on; Spain, Italy and the state of California now have their own version of the feed-in law. Another exemplary leader in renewable energy is Iceland. In Iceland, an amazing 80% of its energy comes from renewable sources such as hydroelectric and geothermal power plants. With government backing, Iceland companies are now exporting their expertise to places as diverse as Djibouti, China and southern California. France, on the other hand, generates 80% of its electricity from nuclear power, having shut its last coal-fired plant in 2004. In March 2008, France and the UK agreed to co-operate in developing nuclear power stations and exporting the technology around the world. The UK, which derives only 20% of its electricity from an ageing stock of nuclear power stations hopes that its partnership with France to sell nuclear power stations to other countries over the next 15 years could help the world reduce carbon emissions by 50% in 2050. UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown wants Britain to play a major role in the race to build 1,000 nuclear power stations across the world (adding to the current 400 around the globe) as part of his vision to end global addiction to oil. In Asia, Japan generates around 30% of its electricity from nuclear power and plans to raise the figure to more than 40% by 2017. South Korea generates 45% of its electricity from nuclear power and plans to increase it to 60% by 2035. Asia’s construction of nuclear reactors will account for more than one-third of the world’s total by 2020. While the use of nuclear energy is not carbon-polluting, the danger of radioactive leakage from the disposal of spent nuclear fuel or from seismic activities cannot be completely ruled out. The 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster in Ukraine and the radioactive leaks from a nuclear reactor in Japan (which is the largest nuclear reactor in the world) in August 2007 following an earthquake are grim reminders. To diversify its reliance on nuclear energy, France’s President Nicolas Sarkozy has pledged Euros 1 billion to fund research into thermal technology and alternative energy sources, with a target of 20% of France’s energy supplies to be renewable by 2020. In the UK, Prime Minister Gordon Brown is trying to push for a global carbon-trading system abroad and a 32% cut in emissions at home by 2020. However, he has taken flak for his support of coalfired plants and the new runway at Heathrow airport. Over in coal-rich Australia, the new government has to grapple with the challenge of playing a more than symbolic role in the fight against global warming, given Kevin ECO Information Package on the Environment and Climate Change.

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Rudd’s support for logging in his country’s old-growth forests. From the above examples, it is heartening to note that progress is being made by different countries, but at different rates. If the US was the largest emitter of greenhouse gases in the past decade, then China is set to become the world’s biggest polluter in the years ahead. In 2004, China’s greenhouse gas emissions were only 54% of the US’ emissions. But China is today building an average of one coal-fired power plant every week China’s leaders plan to install 30 gigawatts of wind power by 2020, but in 2006 added 90 gigawatts more of new coal-fired plants. China’s rise as a major economic power demands that it play an active role as a signatory of the Kyoto Protocol in reducing global warming. However, as late as September 2009, China still insists that developed countries have the duty to take the lead in cutting greenhouse gas emissions without detracting from the principle of “common but differentiated responsibility” agreed in 1997 Without drastically reining in China’s carbon emissions, efforts elsewhere to reduce global warming would be in vain. This portends a future clash amongst the countries as to which country should make the maximum concessions without sacrificing their economic growth. Within China itself, steps have been taken to increase reliance on renewable energy sources such as harnessing the power of the waves. In 2007, China completed the world’s largest hydro-electric dam, the Three Gorges Dam. Although damming the Yangtze River will generate electricity equivalent to burning 40 million tons of coal, and hydro-electricity is more reliable than wind or solar energy, the construction of the dam has lead to soil erosion and landslides, and has altered the ecosystem of the river. Excessive damming may also stress the geological fault-lines, precipitating earthquakes. The recent massive earthquake in Sichuan on 12 March 2008 which killed more than 50,000 and rendered 5 million homeless is a stark reminder of the dangers of tampering with Nature’s ecosystems. China is also harnessing the power of the Mekong River which originates from the high glaciers in the Qinghai-Tibet plateau. In 1986, China started to build a cascade of dams on its section of the Mekong River, in the Yunnan province. The cascade of 8 dams, including the world’s tallest dam at Xiaowan which is being built at a cost of US$4 billion, will generate a massive 30,000 megawatts of sustainable hydropower which can replace 30 big coal-burning plants. China is also focused on low-cost manufacturing of solar, wind and batteries, and building the world’s biggest market for these products. Soon after the choking pollution of Lake Tai in Wuxi, the Wuxi city government decided to shut down as many polluting and energy consuming companies in the region as soon as possible, and this policy fostered the rise of Suntech, the world’s largest manufacturer of solar panels, which aims to grow the solar business in China into a US$15 billion industry Notably, America’s premier solar equipment maker, Applied Materials, would be opening the world’s largest privately-funded solar research facility in Xian, China. In terms of harnessing wind power, according to ecologist Lester Brown, China will surpass the US as the world leader in wind generation by the end of 2009.

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While the developed and rapidly developing countries bicker over their share of the burden to reduce global emissions, two extreme examples of hope and despair stand out in South-east Asia. Singapore is quietly building up its research capability in clean, renewable energies, especially in solar energy, and has attracted international green technology players, giving us hope that technological breakthroughs can save our planet. Committed to reducing carbon emissions, gain energy efficiency and use more renewable energy, Singapore has also taken steps to attract international carbon trading companies, to accelerate Singapore’s role as a global or regional carbon trading hub. On the other hand, Indonesia which is arguably the world’s third worst polluter, continues to denude its forests with cavalier indifference to the environment, goaded by the promise of economic gains. Including Indonesia, every year 20 million hectares of rainforests (an area of the size of England, Wales and Scotland combined) are cut down, releasing million of tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. In the past 100 years, while global population grew from 1.6 billion to 6.5 billion, the world lost half of its tropical forests. Deforestation generates as much as 20% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions. As a main culprit, Indonesia releases more carbon through deforestation than any other country in the world. According to Greenpeace, the burning of Sumatra’s peatlands (which store 14.6 billion tons of carbon) would release greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to a year’s total emissions globally. Such slash-and-burn tactics used by farmers in Indonesia to clear forests for palm oil plantations result in the skies of South-east Asia being blanketed by haze yearly.. These recalcitrant violations of Nature seem to be taking its toll. 415 sq km of the Antarctica’s Wilkins Ice shelf has started to collapse. Australia’s rice industry collapsed after 6 years of drought, contributing to a doubling of the price of rice. Scientists believe it is one of the earliest signs that a warming planet is starting to affect food production. In North Africa and the sub-Sahara, drought and over-farming could lead to a loss of 75% of arable land. The Nile Delta could be threatened by both rising sea levels and salination of agricultural land. The Horn of Africa and South Africa are vulnerable to reduced rainfall and higher temperature. Migration in this region and other regions in Northern Africa to reach Europe is likely to intensify. In the Middle East, water systems are under huge stress and significant reduction in crop yields is predicted. Over at the Mekong Delta, between 2000 and 2005, Vietnam lost 51% of its remaining primary forests while Cambodia lost 29%. Logging and land clearance continue to strip the last forests of the Mekong The UN has predicted that there will be millions of environmental migrants by 2020, with climate change as one of the main drivers of this phenomenon. Between 12%-15% of arable land could be lost to rising sea levels in this century, with five million affected by 2050. Higher sea levels could threaten the lives of 2 billion people because 4 out of 10 in Asia live within 60km of a cost. Recognizing these perils, and quoting well-known economist Nicholas Stern’s estimate than more than US$ 5 billion a year is needed to halt deforestation, World Bank president Robert Zoellick proposed in December 2007 a US$300 million fund to fend off global warming by preserving forests. Although this is a small step, it is urgently needed. On a brighter note, Japan, which spearheaded efforts to achieve the Kyoto pact, aims to be a world leader in developing technologies to save the earth from the threat of global warming. Working together with industries, the ECO Information Package on the Environment and Climate Change.

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Japanese government drew up the Cool Earth Energy Innovative Technology Plan in March 2008, which lists technologies under 21 categories that can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Many of these technologies (which include carbon sequestration and solar energy) require a lot of time and effort to develop and may be best done in a concerted way by the G8 nations. If developed successfully, these technologies will help fulfill Japan’s goal of reducing global greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2050. Thankfully, the G8 nations have responded positively. In the June 2008 G8 meeting held in Osaka, G8 leaders agreed to set up a Climate Investment Fund to help emerging countries such as China and India make the costly transition to using clean technologies. The fund which could attract up to US$10 billion, will be housed in the World Bank and funded mainly by the US, Japan and Britain. All G-8 countries also unanimously pledged to cut carbon emissions by at least 50% by 2050. It seems that the world remains on track to reach a global climate deal in Copenhagen in 2009, except that G-5 countries (Brazil, China, India, Mexico and South Africa) had demanded that G-8 countries take the lead in cutting emissions by 80%-90% below 1990 levels by 2050, with medium-term goals of 25%-40% by 2020. With Barack Obama and Hu Jintao both promising to enter into these talks with an agreement in mind, there remains hope that a deal could be struck in December this year. Another promising development is taking place in Denmark in the form of a carbon tax, which has led to a large decrease in emissions; per capita carbon dioxide emissions was almost 15% lower in 2005 compared to 1990, even without any reliance on nuclear energy. Denmark succeeded in this feat because the government rechanneled the carbon tax proceeds into industries in the form of subsidies for environmental innovations, research into alternative energy sources and carbon-capture technologies. Norway, Finland and Sweden should take a leaf from this. In conclusion, as long as developing countries believe that they are entitled to grow economically without the pain of switching out of fossil fuels, and developed countries particularly the US refuse to take leadership in an exemplary sacrifice of coal-driven or oil-driven economic growth, we are stalemated. The world spends US$250 billion yearly on energy subsidies, promoting energy waste and locking in polluting infrastructure for decades. By 2009, if a fresh Kyoto Protocol cannot be inked, and the dichotomy between growth and restraint continues to dog our efforts to reduce global warming, we may soon discover that it will be too late. President Barack Obama, who is wisely steering the US into a driver’s role in the forthcoming climate negotiations at Copenhagen, Denmark has issued a clarion call to all nations: “Each of us must do what we can, when we can, to grow our economies without endangering our planet.”

At this watershed moment of history, we would do well to recall the words of John F Kennedy in his speech to the UN in 1963: “The effort to improve the conditions of man…is not a task for the few. It is the task of all- acting alone, acting in groups, acting in the United Nations. For plague and pestilence, plunder and pollution, the hazards of nature and the hunger of children are the foes of every nation. And science, technology and education ECO Information Package on the Environment and Climate Change.

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can be the ally of every nation.” Let us heed his words by mustering our political will to do more to promote sustainable development and develop green technologies, and let us quickly reach an equitable global agreement post-Kyoto 2012 with no free riders, before it is too late.

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