GK MCQ on Ecology

Q1. Which emerging issue in global biological conservation involves the development of new sources of hydrogen fuel?
a) Carbon mineralization
b) Decarbonized ammonia production
c) Hydrogen-oxidizing bacteria for food
d) Wildfires affecting climate oscillations

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Correct Answer: a) Carbon mineralization
Explanation: Carbon mineralization is an emerging issue in global biological conservation that involves the development of new sources of hydrogen fuel. This process is significant as it could influence future energy production and its impact on global biodiversity

Q2. What is the role of ecoacoustics in soil ecology monitoring?
a) To measure soil pH
b) To monitor soil biodiversity
c) To assess soil erosion
d) To determine soil fertility

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Correct Answer: b) To monitor soil biodiversity
Explanation: Ecoacoustics is an emerging tool used to monitor soil ecology, particularly soil biodiversity. It involves the use of sound recordings to assess the presence and activities of organisms within the soil ecosystem

Q3. What is the significance of the NEOM (The Line) linear skyscraper city in terms of ecological impact?
a) It is a model for sustainable urban development
b) It represents a shift towards decarbonized construction
c) It is an example of urban sprawl
d) It showcases the use of renewable energy in urban settings

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Correct Answer: a) It is a model for sustainable urban development
Explanation: NEOM (The Line) is a linear skyscraper city that represents a new approach to urban development with potential ecological impacts. It is designed to minimize the environmental footprint and promote sustainable living.

Q4. What is the environmental concern associated with benchtop DNA printers?
a) They contribute to deforestation
b) They increase carbon emissions
c) They have biosecurity implications
d) They lead to water pollution

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Correct Answer: c) They have biosecurity implications
Explanation: Benchtop DNA printers are an emerging technology with potential biosecurity implications. They could influence biological conservation by enabling the synthesis of genetic material, which raises concerns about the regulation and potential misuse of this technology.

Q5. What is the impact of rising temperatures in the mesopelagic zone (twilight zone) on the biological carbon pump?
a) It enhances carbon sequestration
b) It disrupts nutrient cycling
c) It affects the ability to transport carbon to deep waters
d) It increases oxygen levels in the ocean

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Correct Answer: c) It affects the ability to transport carbon to deep waters
Explanation: Rising temperatures in the mesopelagic zone can affect the biological carbon pump, which is responsible for transporting carbon from the surface to the deep ocean. This can have implications for carbon sequestration and climate change.

Q6. What is the ecological significance of earthworm population declines?
a) It indicates soil contamination
b) It affects soil structure and fertility
c) It leads to increased plant growth
d) It reduces soil erosion

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Correct Answer: b) It affects soil structure and fertility
Explanation: Earthworms play a crucial role in maintaining soil structure and fertility. Declines in their populations can have significant ecological consequences, affecting soil health and the organisms that depend on it.

Q7. What is the purpose of decarbonized ammonia production in the context of conservation?
a) To reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers
b) To create a new source of clean energy
c) To mitigate ocean acidification
d) To decrease atmospheric nitrogen levels

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Correct Answer: b) To create a new source of clean energy
Explanation: Decarbonized ammonia production is an emerging issue in conservation as it represents a potential new source of clean energy. This process aims to produce ammonia with a lower carbon footprint, which could help in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Q8. How does the extensive adoption of carbon mineralization techniques contribute to conservation?
a) By increasing soil carbon content
b) By reducing atmospheric CO2 levels
c) By enhancing plant growth
d) By improving water retention in soil

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Correct Answer: b) By reducing atmospheric CO2 levels
Explanation: Carbon mineralization techniques involve the conversion of CO2 into solid minerals, which can be stored long-term. This process contributes to conservation by potentially reducing atmospheric CO2 levels and mitigating climate change.

Q9. What is the ecological impact of sea urchin die-offs on marine ecosystems?
a) It leads to coral reef degradation
b) It increases algal blooms
c) It enhances marine biodiversity
d) It stabilizes ocean currents

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Correct Answer: a) It leads to coral reef degradation
Explanation: Sea urchin die-offs can have a significant ecological impact on marine ecosystems, particularly on coral reefs. The loss of sea urchins, which graze on algae, can lead to unchecked algal growth that overwhelms coral reefs.

Q10. What is the significance of creating high-protein food from air using autotrophic hydrogen-oxidizing bacteria?
a) It offers a sustainable food source
b) It reduces the need for land-based agriculture
c) It decreases water usage for food production
d) All of the above

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Correct Answer: d) All of the above
Explanation: The creation of high-protein food from air using autotrophic hydrogen-oxidizing bacteria is significant as it offers a sustainable food source that reduces the need for land-based agriculture and decreases water usage, potentially alleviating pressure on natural ecosystems.

Q11. What is the role of wildfires in affecting climate oscillations?
a) They contribute to the cooling of sea surface temperatures
b) They lead to increased carbon sequestration
c) They promote the growth of forest ecosystems
d) They stabilize atmospheric conditions

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Correct Answer: a) They contribute to the cooling of sea surface temperatures
Explanation: Wildfires can have a cascading effect on climate oscillations, such as the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO). The smoke from wildfires can cool sea surface temperatures and potentially strengthen the development of the La Niña phase, which affects global weather patterns.

Q12. What is a potential drawback of hydrogen energy production?
a) It requires extensive drilling
b) It can indirectly increase greenhouse gases
c) It may leave areas of the sea with high salt concentrations
d) All of the above

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Correct Answer: d) All of the above
Explanation: While hydrogen energy production can help reduce the burning of fossil fuels, it carries its own environmental risks. These include the need for extensive drilling, the potential to indirectly increase greenhouse gases, and the possibility of leaving areas of the sea with high salt concentrations.

Q13. What is the environmental concern associated with ocean-based strategies to capture carbon dioxide?
a) They could harm marine species and ecosystems
b) They could disrupt nutrient flows in the ocean
c) They could conflict with other ocean uses, such as fishing
d) All of the above

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Correct Answer: d) All of the above
Explanation: Ocean-based strategies to capture carbon dioxide, such as adding iron to stimulate phytoplankton growth or alkaline minerals to increase water’s CO2 absorption, have potential benefits but also carry risks. These methods could harm marine species and ecosystems, disrupt nutrient flows, and conflict with other ocean uses.

Q14. What was the cause of the 2022 Caribbean sea urchin die-off event?
a) Overfishing
b) Pollution
c) A parasitic pathogen
d) Climate change

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Correct Answer: c) A parasitic pathogen
Explanation: The 2022 Caribbean sea urchin die-off event was associated with a scuticociliate, a type of parasitic pathogen. This suggests the emergence of a novel threat to tropical ecosystems as a whole.

Q15. What is the significance of the positive environmental stories from 2024 reported by Euronews?
a) They indicate a decline in eco-innovation
b) They show a decrease in climate wins
c) They demonstrate momentum in eco-innovation and climate action
d) They reflect a lack of progress in environmental issues

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Correct Answer: c) They demonstrate momentum in eco-innovation and climate action
Explanation: The positive environmental stories from 2024 reported by Euronews indicate a significant increase in eco-innovation, green breakthroughs, and climate wins. This momentum is a sign of hope and progress in tackling environmental challenges.

Q16. How is a French town utilizing its cemetery for environmental benefit?
a) By converting it into a wildlife sanctuary
b) By installing a canopy of solar panels over it
c) By planting a community garden
d) By using it as a water conservation area

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Correct Answer: b) By installing a canopy of solar panels over it
Explanation: A French town is making an innovative environmental move by installing a canopy of solar panels over its cemetery. This project will distribute energy to local residents, showcasing a creative approach to utilizing space for renewable energy generation.

Q17. What is the role of sea otters in California’s collapsing marshlands?
a) They contribute to erosion
b) Their appetite for crabs helps prevent erosion
c) They decrease the biodiversity of the marshlands
d) They have no significant impact on the marshlands

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Correct Answer: b) Their appetite for crabs helps prevent erosion
Explanation: Sea otters play a crucial role in preventing erosion in California’s collapsing marshlands. Their appetite for striped shore crabs, which dig burrows and nibble away at the roots of marsh grass, helps to maintain the integrity of the marshlands.

Q18. What was a significant achievement in Scotland’s green strategy in 2022?
a) It banned all fossil fuel vehicles
b) It met 100% of its electricity demand with renewables
c) It achieved zero waste to landfill
d) It planted a million trees

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Correct Answer: b) It met 100% of its electricity demand with renewables
Explanation: In 2022, Scotland’s renewable power sources generated enough energy to meet 100% of the country’s electricity demand. This achievement is a testament to Scotland’s commitment to green energy and its strategy to power the nation solely with renewables.

Q19. What is the purpose of the tallest treehouse in the Amazon?
a) To serve as a tourist attraction
b) To provide a unique lodging experience
c) To educate young Peruvians on deforestation and conservation
d) To conduct research on tree species

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Correct Answer: c) To educate young Peruvians on deforestation and conservation
Explanation: The tallest treehouse in the Amazon serves as a classroom where young Peruvians learn how to defend their rainforest home against deforestation. This educational initiative is part of a broader effort to combat deforestation with technology and conservation strategies.

Q20. What is the significance of the first successful embryo transfer using IVF in rhinos?
a) It could lead to increased poaching
b) It could save rhino species from extinction
c) It has no impact on rhino conservation
d) It could disrupt natural breeding patterns

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Correct Answer: b) It could save rhino species from extinction
Explanation: The first successful embryo transfer using IVF in rhinos is a scientific breakthrough that could pave the way to save rhino species from extinction. This technique offers hope for the conservation of these critically endangered animals.

Q21. What is one of the biggest environmental problems of 2024 according to Terrapass?
a) Overpopulation
b) Climate change fueled by human activities
c) Lack of technological innovation
d) Decreased biodiversity

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Correct Answer: b) Climate change fueled by human activities
Explanation: One of the biggest environmental problems of 2024 is climate change, which is fueled by human activities such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation. Addressing this issue is crucial for the health of the planet.

Q22. What is the impact of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems?
a) It improves water quality
b) It has no significant effect
c) It can severely impact marine ecosystems and animals
d) It increases marine biodiversity

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Correct Answer: c) It can severely impact marine ecosystems and animals
Explanation: Plastic pollution can have a severe impact on marine ecosystems and animals. Plastic waste, including microplastics, can enter the oceans and cause harm to marine life, leading to issues such as ingestion, entanglement, and habitat disruption.

Q23. What is natural resource depletion, and why is it a concern?
a) It is the accumulation of resources for future use
b) It is the consumption of resources faster than they are replaced
c) It is the discovery of new natural resources
d) It is the process of recycling resources

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Correct Answer: b) It is the consumption of resources faster than they are replaced
Explanation: Natural resource depletion occurs when we consume resources faster than they are replaced. This can lead to issues such as water shortages, oil shortages, loss of forested lands, mineral depletion, and even species extinction.

Q24. What is the primary cause of the 2022 Caribbean sea urchin die-off event?
a) Climate change
b) Ocean acidification
c) A parasitic pathogen
d) Overfishing

Show Answer

Correct Answer: c) A parasitic pathogen
Explanation: The 2022 Caribbean Sea urchin die-off event was associated with a scuticociliate, a type of parasitic pathogen. This event suggests the emergence of a novel threat to tropical ecosystems as a whole.

Q25. What is the significance of the positive environmental stories from 2024 reported by Euronews?
a) They indicate a decline in eco-innovation
b) They show a decrease in climate wins
c) They demonstrate momentum in eco-innovation and climate action
d) They reflect a lack of progress in environmental issues

Show Answer

Correct Answer: c) They demonstrate momentum in eco-innovation and climate action
Explanation: The positive environmental stories from 2024 reported by Euronews indicate a significant increase in eco-innovation, green breakthroughs, and climate wins. This momentum is a sign of hope and progress in tackling environmental challenges.

Q26. How is a French town utilizing its cemetery for environmental benefit?
a) By converting it into a wildlife sanctuary
b) By installing a canopy of solar panels over it
c) By planting a community garden
d) By using it as a water conservation area

Show Answer

Correct Answer: b) By installing a canopy of solar panels over it
Explanation: A French town is making an innovative environmental move by installing a canopy of solar panels over its cemetery. This project will distribute energy to local residents, showcasing a creative approach to utilizing space for renewable energy generation.

Q27. What is the role of sea otters in California’s collapsing marshlands?
a) They contribute to erosion
b) Their appetite for crabs helps prevent erosion
c) They decrease the biodiversity of the marshlands
d) They have no significant impact on the marshlands

Show Answer

Correct Answer: b) Their appetite for crabs helps prevent erosion
Explanation: Sea otters play a crucial role in preventing erosion in California’s collapsing marshlands. Their appetite for striped shore crabs, which dig burrows and nibble away at the roots of marsh grass, helps to maintain the integrity of the marshlands.

Q28. What was a significant achievement in Scotland’s green strategy in 2022?
a) It banned all fossil fuel vehicles
b) It met 100% of its electricity demand with renewables
c) It achieved zero waste to landfill
d) It planted a million trees

Show Answer

Correct Answer: b) It met 100% of its electricity demand with renewables
Explanation: In 2022, Scotland’s renewable power sources generated enough energy to meet 100% of the country’s electricity demand. This achievement is a testament to Scotland’s commitment to green energy and its strategy to power the nation solely with renewables.

Q29. What innovative method is being used to track wildlife populations in remote areas?
a) Satellite imagery
b) Drone surveillance
c) AI-powered camera traps
d) Underwater microphones

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Correct Answer: c) AI-powered camera traps
Explanation: AI-powered camera traps represent a significant advancement in monitoring wildlife populations, especially in remote or inaccessible areas. These devices use artificial intelligence to recognize and record data on various species, improving the efficiency and accuracy of wildlife research and conservation efforts.

Q30. In 2023, which country announced a major initiative to restore its mangrove forests?
a) India
b) Brazil
c) Australia
d) Indonesia

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Correct Answer: d) Indonesia
Explanation: Indonesia announced a major initiative to restore its mangrove forests in 2023. Recognizing the critical role mangroves play in carbon sequestration and coastal protection, this initiative aims to combat climate change and protect biodiversity.

Q31. What is the primary goal of the “30 by 30” conservation initiative?
a) To reduce carbon emissions by 30% by 2030
b) To ensure 30% of the Earth’s surface is covered by forests by 2030
c) To protect 30% of the planet’s land and oceans by 2030
d) To increase renewable energy usage to 30% globally by 2030

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Correct Answer: c) To protect 30% of the planet’s land and oceans by 2030
Explanation: The “30 by 30” conservation initiative aims to protect 30% of the planet’s land and oceans by 2030. This ambitious goal is driven by the need to preserve biodiversity, combat climate change, and ensure the health of the planet for future generations.

Q32. Which technology is being increasingly used in 2024 to monitor deforestation in real-time?
a) Blockchain
b) Quantum computing
c) Satellite technology
d) 5G networks

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Correct Answer: c) Satellite technology
Explanation: Satellite technology is being increasingly used in 2024 to monitor deforestation in real-time. This technology allows for the continuous observation of Earth’s surface, providing valuable data to detect and prevent illegal logging and deforestation activities.

Q33. What significant environmental event is scheduled to take place in India in 2024 related to renewable energy?
a) The launch of the world’s largest solar park
b) Hosting the International Renewable Energy Conference
c) The completion of the first offshore wind farm
d) The inauguration of a national green hydrogen mission

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Correct Answer: d) The inauguration of a national green hydrogen mission
Explanation: In 2024, India is scheduled to inaugurate a national green hydrogen mission. This initiative aims to position India as a global leader in green hydrogen production and use, contributing to the country’s energy security and climate goals.

Q34. What is the main focus of the Global Soil Biodiversity Initiative launched in 2023?
a) To increase agricultural productivity
b) To map the genetic diversity of soil organisms worldwide
c) To promote sustainable soil management practices
d) To combat desertification and land degradation

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Correct Answer: c) To promote sustainable soil management practices
Explanation: The Global Soil Biodiversity Initiative launched in 2023 focuses on promoting sustainable soil management practices. By emphasizing the importance of soil health and biodiversity, the initiative aims to support ecosystem services, food security, and climate resilience.

Q35. Which city announced its plan to become carbon neutral by 2040, making it one of the most ambitious targets globally?
a) Copenhagen
b) Tokyo
c) New York City
d) Paris

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Correct Answer: a) Copenhagen
Explanation: Copenhagen announced its plan to become carbon neutral by 2040, setting one of the most ambitious targets globally. The city’s comprehensive strategy includes investments in renewable energy, green transportation, and energy-efficient buildings.

Q36. What breakthrough technology is being developed to combat ocean acidification?
a) Carbon capture and storage (CCS) in marine environments
b) Genetically modified coral reefs
c) Alkalinity enhancement of seawater
d) Robotic fish that absorb carbon dioxide

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Correct Answer: c) Alkalinity enhancement of seawater
Explanation: Alkalinity enhancement of seawater is a breakthrough technology being developed to combat ocean acidification. By increasing the seawater’s capacity to absorb and neutralize carbon dioxide, this approach aims to protect marine ecosystems and biodiversity.

Q37. Which country launched the first satellite dedicated to monitoring greenhouse gas emissions from industrial sites?
a) United States
b) China
c) Germany
d) Japan

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Correct Answer: b) China
Explanation: China launched the first satellite dedicated to monitoring greenhouse gas emissions from industrial sites. This satellite aims to provide accurate data on emissions, supporting efforts to reduce greenhouse gases and combat climate change.

Q38. What innovative approach is being used in urban areas to reduce heat islands and improve air quality?
a) Vertical forests
b) Solar reflective pavements
c) Underground cooling systems
d) Drone-delivered green roofs

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Correct Answer: a) Vertical forests
Explanation: Vertical forests are an innovative approach used in urban areas to reduce heat islands and improve air quality. These structures, covered in vegetation, not only beautify the cityscape but also contribute to cooling the environment and filtering pollutants from the air.

Q39. Which international agreement was updated in 2024 to include stricter targets for biodiversity conservation?
a) The Paris Agreement
b) The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
c) The Ramsar Convention
d) The Kyoto Protocol

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Correct Answer: b) The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
Explanation: In 2024, the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) was updated to include stricter targets for biodiversity conservation. This update reflects the global community’s increased commitment to protecting ecosystems and species from the threats of habitat loss, climate change, and pollution.

Q40. What is the primary goal of the “Blue Carbon” initiative launched by coastal countries in 2023?
a) To promote sustainable fisheries
b) To protect and restore mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes
c) To increase offshore wind energy production
d) To reduce plastic pollution in the oceans

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Correct Answer: b) To protect and restore mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes
Explanation: The primary goal of the “Blue Carbon” initiative launched by coastal countries in 2023 is to protect and restore mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes. These ecosystems are vital for carbon sequestration, coastal protection, and supporting marine biodiversity.

Q41. What innovative method is being used to rehabilitate coral reefs affected by bleaching?
a) Coral gardening
b) Deep-sea mining
c) Artificial intelligence drones
d) Seawater desalination

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Correct Answer: a) Coral gardening
Explanation: Coral gardening is an innovative method used to rehabilitate coral reefs affected by bleaching. This technique involves the cultivation of coral fragments in nurseries and their subsequent transplantation to damaged reefs, promoting recovery and biodiversity.

Q42. In 2023, which country announced the creation of the world’s largest marine protected area (MPA)?
a) Brazil
b) Canada
c) Australia
d) Russia

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Correct Answer: c) Australia
Explanation: In 2023, Australia announced the creation of the world’s largest marine protected area (MPA). This significant conservation effort aims to safeguard marine ecosystems, species, and habitats from threats such as overfishing, pollution, and climate change.

Q43. What is the main objective of the Global Peatlands Initiative launched in 2024?
a) To increase peat extraction for energy
b) To map and conserve peatlands globally
c) To convert peatlands into agricultural land
d) To promote peatland tourism

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Correct Answer: b) To map and conserve peatlands globally
Explanation: The main objective of the Global Peatlands Initiative launched in 2024 is to map and conserve peatlands globally. Recognizing the importance of peatlands in carbon storage, biodiversity, and water regulation, this initiative seeks to protect these ecosystems from degradation and loss.

Q44. Which technology is being used to enhance the genetic resilience of plants to climate change?
a) CRISPR gene editing
b) Hydroponic farming
c) Vertical LED lighting
d) Nanotechnology fertilizers

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Correct Answer: a) CRISPR gene editing
Explanation: CRISPR gene editing is a technology being used to enhance the genetic resilience of plants to climate change. By editing the genes of crops, scientists aim to develop varieties that are more resistant to extreme weather, pests, and diseases, ensuring food security.

Q45. What is the focus of the “Green Wall” initiative in Africa?
a) To build a physical wall to stop desertification
b) To plant a continuous line of trees across the Sahara Desert
c) To promote solar energy across the continent
d) To increase internet connectivity in rural areas

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Correct Answer: b) To plant a continuous line of trees across the Sahara Desert
Explanation: The focus of the “Green Wall” initiative in Africa is to plant a continuous line of trees across the Sahara Desert. This ambitious project aims to combat desertification, restore degraded land, and improve livelihoods in the Sahel region.

Q46. What breakthrough was achieved in 2024 in the field of renewable energy storage?
a) The development of gravity-based energy storage systems
b) The invention of water-splitting catalysts for hydrogen production
c) The commercialization of solid-state batteries
d) The creation of biofuel from algae at scale

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Correct Answer: c) The commercialization of solid-state batteries
Explanation: In 2024, a breakthrough was achieved with the commercialization of solid-state batteries. These batteries offer higher energy density, faster charging times, and improved safety compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries, representing a significant advancement in renewable energy storage.

Q47. What is the primary challenge addressed by the “Clean Air Cities” declaration?
a) To reduce urban noise pollution
b) To decrease the carbon footprint of cities
c) To improve air quality in urban areas
d) To increase green spaces in cities

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Correct Answer: c) To improve air quality in urban areas
Explanation: The primary challenge addressed by the “Clean Air Cities” declaration is to improve air quality in urban areas. Cities participating in this initiative commit to implementing policies and measures to reduce air pollution, benefiting public health and the environment.

Q48. In 2023, which innovative material was introduced as a sustainable alternative to concrete in construction?
a) Recycled plastic
b) Engineered bamboo
c) Mushroom mycelium
d) Hempcrete

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Correct Answer: d) Hempcrete
Explanation: In 2023, hempcrete was introduced as a sustainable alternative to concrete in construction. Made from hemp fibers and lime, hempcrete is a carbon-negative material that offers excellent insulation properties, contributing to energy-efficient and environmentally friendly buildings.

Q49. What global initiative was launched to address the decline in pollinator populations?
a) The Pollinator Protection Pact
b) The Bee Highway Project
c) The Global Pollinator Health Initiative
d) The Butterfly Corridor Program

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Correct Answer: c) The Global Pollinator Health Initiative
Explanation: The Global Pollinator Health Initiative was launched to address the decline in pollinator populations. This initiative aims to promote research, conservation, and sustainable practices to protect pollinators, which are essential for food production and ecosystem health.

Q50. What is the goal of the “Zero Waste Cities” project initiated in several countries in 2024?
a) To eliminate all waste production in cities
b) To achieve 100% recycling and composting rates
c) To ban single-use plastics
d) To reduce urban waste generation by 50%

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Correct Answer: b) To achieve 100% recycling and composting rates
Explanation: The goal of the “Zero Waste Cities” project initiated in several countries in 2024 is to achieve 100% recycling and composting rates. This ambitious project focuses on minimizing waste sent to landfills and incinerators, promoting a circular economy, and reducing the environmental impact of urban waste.

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