Tag: science & technology

Benzene is a known carcinogen present in unleaded petrol as part of the aromatic hydrocarbon blend used to increase octane rating. Lead was used in leaded petrol, not unleaded petrol, and has been phased out. Methane and toluene are not classified as carcinogens in the same way as benzene.

The Montreal Protocol is the international treaty that specifically phases out ozone-depleting substances (ODs) like CFCs with binding time limits and reduction targets. The Vienna Convention provides the framework but does not contain phase-out schedules. The Basel Convention deals with hazardous waste management, while the Kyoto Protocol targets greenhouse gas emissions.

Sulphur dioxide (SO2) is the primary gas emitted from power stations burning coal or oil that reacts with atmospheric water to form sulphuric acid, the main component of acid rain. Nitrogen oxides also contribute, but SO2 from sulphur-containing fossil fuels is the dominant cause of acid rain from power generation.

Hemp is an exceptionally versatile plant that can be used for paper, textiles, construction materials (hempcrete), food (seeds, oil), medicine, biodegradable plastics, and even biofuel. Its fast growth and minimal pesticide requirements make it an efficient sustainable resource. Bamboo, plantain, and coconut are useful but not as broadly applicable as hemp.

The Kyoto Protocol's primary goal is to legally bind developed countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (specifically CO2, methane, N2O, HFCs, PFCs, and SF6) by setting binding targets. It does not address ozone layer depletion (that's the Montreal Protocol) or endangered species protection. While it encourages green technologies indirectly, its core mechanism is binding emission reduction commitments.

A carbon footprint measures the total amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions caused directly or indirectly by an activity, organization, or individual, primarily through fossil fuel combustion. It is not about physical size, tree absorption, or fossil imprints. The term refers to the environmental impact measured in CO2 equivalent emissions.

Mercury is a toxic heavy metal found in fluorescent bulbs, tube lights, and batteries that can vaporize when broken and be absorbed through inhalation or skin contact. It particularly damages the kidneys and nervous system, including the brain. Copper, cadmium, and arsenic are also toxic but mercury is specifically associated with these lighting products.

The electric power generation sector is India's largest greenhouse gas emitter, primarily due to coal-fired thermal power plants which dominate the country's electricity mix. While transport, agriculture, and domestic sectors contribute significantly, power generation accounts for the highest share of emissions. This is consistent with developing economies reliant on coal for energy.

Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) are the most energy-efficient option listed, using approximately 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and lasting longer. Fluorescent tube lights are also efficient but less so than CFLs. Incandescent bulbs are the least efficient, converting most energy to heat rather than light. 'Serial Bulbs' appears to be a distractor.

Vegetable peels and other kitchen waste are important components of organic waste, which is biodegradable and can be composted. Organic waste includes food scraps, garden waste, and other natural materials. Plastic bags, glass, and metal fall under recyclable waste, not organic waste.