- (E) The Ocean Dumping Act prohibits dumping of wastes into territorial
ocean waters.
FREE-RESPONSE ANSWER
10 Total Points Possible
(a) Maximum 5 points distributed as follows: (i) In the “business as usual”
model, identify TWO factors you think might contribute to the increase in carbon
dioxide emissions. (2 points maximum for correctly identifying two factors
(worth 1 point each) that contribute to an increase in CO 2 emissions.) Notable
points:
Cover all of the relevant aspects of “business as usual,” such as
increasing size and development of populations.
Increased carbon dioxide emissions primarily come from increased
burning of fossil fuels worldwide. The “business as usual” model would
include an increasing global population, which would mean an increase in
the demand for energy. In the “business as usual” model, this need would
be met primarily by an increased use of fossil fuels, by far the most
common source of energy in the world today. Increasing rates of
development, particularly of developing countries in this model, would
also lead to an increase in fossil fuel use.
(ii) Given the shape of the graph, what do you think is meant in this case by
“technological change”? (1 point maximum for correctly describing
“technological change.” The “technological change” curve shows a
dramatic reduction in carbon dioxide emissions compared to the “business
as usual curve.” Therefore, your answer needs to focus on a technology
that can reduce fossil fuel use.) “Technological change” is a vague phrase
that could mean many things. In this case, the curve shows a dramatic
reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, so the question is asking about
technologies that reduce fossil fuel use.
“Technological change” reduces carbon dioxide emissions on this graph.
Increased use of alternative sources of energy, such as nuclear power,
hydroelectric, solar, and tidal energy, would all decrease fossil fuel
emissions. Technologies that increase energy efficiency and save power,
such as more efficient car engines, would also decrease the use of fossil
fuels and thus carbon dioxide emissions.