Environmental Science and Sustainability MCQs (Part-5)
What is the primary cause of the greenhouse effect?
A Reflection of solar radiation
B Increased oxygen levels
C Trapping of heat by greenhouse gases
D Reduced carbon dioxide levels
The greenhouse effect is caused by the trapping of heat in the Earth’s atmosphere by greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, methane, and water vapor. These gases allow sunlight to enter but prevent heat from escaping, leading to global warming.
Which of the following is a key principle of sustainable urban planning?
A Compact and walkable cities
B Sprawling cities
C High energy consumption
D Increased pollution
Sustainable urban planning focuses on creating compact and walkable cities with efficient public transportation, green spaces, and eco-friendly infrastructure. It aims to reduce energy consumption, pollution, and urban sprawl.
What is the primary purpose of environmental impact assessment (EIA)?
A To ignore environmental concerns
B To deplete natural resources
C To increase pollution
D To predict and mitigate environmental impacts of projects
An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) evaluates the potential environmental effects of a proposed project. It helps decision-makers understand and mitigate negative impacts before proceeding, ensuring sustainable development.
Which of the following is a major cause of ozone layer depletion?
A Carbon dioxide emissions
B Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
C Methane emissions
D Water vapor
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are the primary cause of ozone layer depletion. These chemicals release chlorine atoms that break down ozone molecules in the stratosphere, leading to the formation of the ozone hole.
What is the primary purpose of renewable energy?
A To deplete natural resources
B To reduce dependence on fossil fuels
C To increase pollution
D To ignore energy efficiency
Renewable energy aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels by harnessing inexhaustible sources like solar, wind, and hydro power. It helps mitigate climate change, reduce pollution, and promote sustainable energy systems.
Which of the following is a key principle of sustainable tourism?
A Overcrowding tourist destinations
B Ignoring local cultures
C Minimizing environmental impact
D Increasing pollution
Sustainable tourism focuses on minimizing environmental impact, preserving local cultures, and supporting community development. It promotes responsible travel practices that benefit both the environment and local populations.
What is the primary cause of groundwater contamination?
A Natural filtration
B Soil conservation
C Rainwater harvesting
D Industrial and agricultural pollutants
Groundwater contamination is primarily caused by industrial and agricultural pollutants, such as chemicals, pesticides, and heavy metals. These contaminants seep into the ground, making groundwater unsafe for drinking and irrigation.
Which of the following is a key principle of eco-friendly transportation?
A Promoting public transportation and cycling
B Using fossil fuel-powered vehicles
C Increasing traffic congestion
D Ignoring air quality
Eco-friendly transportation focuses on promoting public transportation, cycling, and electric vehicles to reduce emissions, traffic congestion, and reliance on fossil fuels. It aims to create sustainable and efficient mobility systems.
What is the primary purpose of environmental education?
A To ignore environmental issues
B To raise awareness and promote sustainable practices
C To increase pollution
D To deplete natural resources
Environmental education aims to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices. It empowers individuals and communities to take action for environmental conservation and sustainable development.
Which of the following is a major cause of air pollution in urban areas?
A Tree planting
B Renewable energy
C Vehicle emissions
D Water conservation
Vehicle emissions are a major cause of air pollution in urban areas, releasing pollutants like nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and particulate matter. These emissions contribute to smog, respiratory diseases, and climate change.
What is the primary purpose of a carbon footprint assessment?
A To increase carbon emissions
B To measure and reduce greenhouse gas emissions
C To ignore climate change
D To promote fossil fuel use
A carbon footprint assessment measures the total greenhouse gas emissions caused by an individual, organization, or product. It helps identify opportunities to reduce emissions and mitigate climate change impacts.
Which of the following is a key principle of sustainable water management?
A Over-extraction of groundwater
B Efficient use and conservation of water resources
C Ignoring water pollution
D Increasing water wastage
Sustainable water management focuses on the efficient use and conservation of water resources to ensure long-term availability. It includes practices like rainwater harvesting, reducing water wastage, and treating wastewater to minimize environmental impact.
What is the primary cause of soil degradation?
A Overuse of chemical fertilizers
B Crop rotation
C Organic farming
D Soil conservation
Soil degradation is primarily caused by the overuse of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and poor agricultural practices. These practices deplete soil nutrients, reduce fertility, and lead to erosion, making it difficult to sustain agricultural productivity.
Which of the following is a key principle of green building design?
A High energy consumption
B Use of non-renewable materials
C Energy efficiency and sustainability
D Ignoring water conservation
Green building design emphasizes energy efficiency, sustainability, and the use of renewable materials. It aims to reduce the environmental impact of buildings by incorporating features like solar panels, efficient insulation, and water-saving technologies.
What is the primary purpose of an environmental audit?
A To ignore environmental regulations
B To deplete natural resources
C To increase pollution
D To assess and improve environmental performance
An environmental audit is a systematic evaluation of an organization’s environmental performance. It identifies areas for improvement, ensures compliance with environmental regulations, and promotes sustainable practices to reduce environmental impact.