MCQs - 2026-04

A treaty's impact is determined by the robustness of its clauses, the commitment of signatory nations to put them into practice, and effective monitoring and enforcement.

The treaty aims to shift towards a circular economy model, where plastics are reused, repaired, and recycled, minimizing waste and the need for new production.

Disagreements exist on whether the treaty should cover the entire lifecycle of plastics (including production and design) or primarily focus on managing plastic waste and pollution.

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the lead agency coordinating the intergovernmental negotiations for the global plastic treaty.

The core objective is to create a legally binding international agreement that addresses the entire lifecycle of plastics, from production to disposal, to combat plastic pollution effectively.

Infrastructure like buildings, roads, and pipelines in the Arctic are often built on the assumption of stable, frozen ground. Thawing permafrost causes subsidence and instability, damaging these structures.

This is known as the permafrost carbon feedback. The released greenhouse gases trap more heat, leading to further thawing and more gas release, creating a self-reinforcing cycle of warming.

The thawing permafrost can release long-dormant microbes, viruses, and bacteria, posing potential health risks if they become active again.

When organic matter in permafrost thaws, it decomposes, releasing significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4), both potent greenhouse gases.

Permafrost refers to ground that has been frozen continuously for at least two years. It is a significant feature of Arctic landscapes.