Solution of Chapter 8. Environment and Natural Resources (Contemporary World Politics Book)

Which among the following best explains the reason for growing concerns about the environment?

Mark correct or wrong against each of the following statements about the Earth Summit:

(a) It was attended by 170 countries, thousands of NGOs and many MNCs.

(b) The summit was held under the aegis of the UN.

(c) For the first time, global environmental issues were firmly consolidated at the political level.

(d) It was a summit meeting.

Which among the following are TRUE about the global commons?

(a) The Earth’s atmosphere, Antarctica, ocean floor and outer space are considered as part of the global commons.

(b) The global commons are outside sovereign jurisdiction.

(c) The question of managing the global commons has reflected the North-South divide.

(d) The countries of the North are more concerned about the protection of the global commons than the countries of the South.

What were the outcomes of the Rio Summit?

What is meant by the global commons? How are they exploited and polluted?

What is meant by ‘common but differentiated responsibilities’? How could we implement the idea?

Why have issues related to global environmental protection become the priority concern of states since the 1990s?

Compromise and accommodation are the two essential policies required by states to save planet Earth. Substantiate the statement in the light of the ongoing negotiations between the North and South on environmental issues.

The most serious challenge before the states is pursuing economic development without causing further damage to the global environment. How could we achieve this? Explain with a few examples.